Harry Maguire must make the most of his time with England at the World Cup because Manchester United is an “unforgiving” environment to go back to, according to Gary Neville.
Maguire is enjoying a brilliant time with the Three Lions in Qatar where he has started all three of their group stage matches. The United defender has been a rock in the centre of defence, helping them record back-to-back clean sheets to progress top of Group B following their 3-0 win over Wales on Tuesday.
His performances have come as a stark contrast to his form with United, where he has struggled to get in Erik ten Hag’s side after injury. Maguire’s confidence has taken a dent in club football, but former United defender Neville is backing him to turn it around, despite the high expectations at Old Trafford.
“Harry is a good player. He’s a good centre-back and has been brilliant at the last two tournaments. He’s just had an awful time at United over the last 12 months,” Neville told Sky Sports.
“United is a very unforgiving place, I know that from being there for 20 years. If you just don’t get it right and if something’s not right, that place can eat you alive, it really can – and Harry is just getting that at this moment in time. But I think Harry will come through it at United. Look at Marcus [Rashford].”
Like Maguire, Rashford experienced a prolonged dip in form at United, but has since reestablished himself at the club. His two goals in the Wales win took him onto three in the tournament and emphasised Neville’s point.
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Maguire has excelled under Gareth Southgate, forming a strong partnership with John Stones, which has endured through the past two tournaments. “I think he feels more loved by England, maybe, I think he feels more at home,” Neville added.
“During my career, I don’t think I can think of one player who played better for their country than their club. Harry Maguire plays better for his country than his club.
“I didn’t think Harry would play – and if he did, I thought it would be on the left of a back three. So, for Harry to play the first games like he has, I think is a massive success and gives Harry great [confidence].”
Maguire himself is only too aware that Rashford can be a good example for him. “I am really pleased for Marcus,” Maguire said after the Wales win. “For the last year or so he has been in and out of the England team and set up.
“I think he has really found his form again for Manchester United and he is a massive player for our club. Throughout a long career, you will always have ups and downs and it is all about how you bounce back when you are out of form.”
