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Maguire: I'm arguably one of the best defenders in the world

16h29 CEST

09/04/2026

Harry Maguire believes he is "one of the best defenders in the world" as the Manchester United centre-back looks to feature in one last World Cup with England this summer.

The Red Devils have won seven of their 10 Premier League games since Michael Carrick's arrival as interim head coach (D2 L1), seeing them move up to third in the top flight.

Maguire has played 861 of a possible 900 minutes in the league under Carrick, though the defender was sent off last time out against Bournemouth.

The 33-year-old has won the joint-fourth most duels (57) among defenders across the last 10 matchdays (since Carrick's appointment), while only Gabriel Magalhaes (78.5%) has won a higher percentage of his duels than Maguire (77% - minimum 30 duels won).

Maguire recently extended his deal at Old Trafford until June 2027, and he sees himself as a valuable asset to the club.

"I still believe, even at my age, I'm arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes," said Maguire.

"I don't think that's in question really; that I can be really effective later on in games, whether you're holding on to a lead or trying to chase a game."

During the international break, Maguire started in England's friendly against Uruguay before coming off the bench against Japan.

Maguire has made 12 appearances across the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, helping England reach the semi-finals and quarter-finals respectively.

At the 2018 edition, where England finished fourth, Maguire won the most duels (54) and aerial duels (42) among defenders.

The United defender is "desperate" to represent his country on the world stage one last time in his career.

"I think it would be my last World Cup," Maguire added.

"I've been to two but I missed out on the Euros two years ago through injury, which hurt a lot.

"So, I'm desperate to go, in whatever role the manager would want me for; whether that's starting or deciding games late on.

"I still think there's an important part I can play; that I can help. If the manager believes the same, I'm sure he will pick me."

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