Maguire is set to renew his weekly wage contract, potentially celebrating a call-up to the national team—double good news! The secret behind Carrick's success revealed.

Manchester United center-back Harry Maguire will continue with the club next season as he nears agreement on the weekly salary and contract length, with both sides making concessions to increase the likelihood of renewal. The 32-year-old England defender's current deal expires at the end of this season, and the extension option was already used last year.

Reports indicate that Manchester United initially wanted Maguire to reduce his weekly wage by £80,000, settling around £120,000 per week with a one-year contract, while Maguire aimed for £150,000 per week on a two-year deal.

Now, both the club and the player have compromised. Maguire agreed to a one-year extension, and the club softened its pay cut demand by offering a weekly wage of £135,000. This places him in a pay bracket between a regular starter and a squad rotation player at Manchester United.

Within United’s defense, De Ligt earns the highest weekly salary at £195,000. Lisandro Martinez makes £120,000 per week, as does Lenny Yaro. Luke Shaw, who plays left-back and center-back, earns £190,000 weekly, while Mazraoui, capable of playing right-back and center-back, is paid £135,000 per week.

Manchester United values Maguire’s experience and influence in the dressing room as a vital asset and hopes to extend his contract accordingly. Crucially, Maguire showed patience during negotiations without pressuring the club for a quick renewal, which helped him gain greater approval.

England head coach Thomas Tuchel, after renewing his contract this week, confirmed that three Manchester United players, including Maguire, Luke Shaw, and Cody Gakpo, are likely to be recalled to his squad. The 52-year-old watched United’s 1-1 draw against West Ham live on Tuesday and said these three left a strong impression on him.

“They’ve always been under consideration, even more so now,” Tuchel stated. “I knew they would start against West Ham, and I wasn’t wrong; that’s why I watched the match live—to see their performance firsthand. I’m pleased they are in good form, physically fit, and competitive again. In March, before confirming the World Cup squad for the US trip, we’ll have another chance to assess them. They have a chance to compete, which makes me happy because the team needs competition.”

Since Tuchel took charge, Maguire, Luke Shaw, and Gakpo have not been selected. Shaw last represented England in the 2024 European Championship final against Spain, while Maguire and Gakpo last played in the Nations League that September.

Under Carrick’s leadership, Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have formed an effective partnership, playing key roles during set pieces. Johnny Evans and Jonathan Woodgate joined the coaching staff, and although defensive issues can’t be fully avoided, they have reignited a strong fighting spirit in the team’s defense.

Carrick’s impact at Manchester United is most evident in the attack. Captain Bruno Fernandes has become the catalyst, given freedom to roam and link up with teammates like Mbemo, Cunha, Amad Diallo, and Cody Gakpo in a diamond formation. This tactical setup allowed United to execute quick passing moves effectively against teams like Manchester City and Arsenal, giving the ball carrier at least two direct passing options.

This style also created a favorable environment for Gakpo’s revival. The 20-year-old English midfielder fits perfectly into this tactic and is less suited to the relentless running role required in Amolin’s 3-4-3 formation. Additionally, Luke Shaw’s return to left-back has brought assists through overlapping runs, while fellow full-back Dalot stays deeper to support the center-backs and Casemiro defensively.

Manchester United is no longer just a group of scattered players but a well-trained team equipped with strategies to handle various situations effectively.