Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay’s form has improved dramatically this season, having both been close to a move in the summer.
The pair have gone from almost being forced out of Manchester United to being among the first names on the team sheet. Eric Ten Hag’s faith has been repaid as the duo played a key role in United’s 2-1 victory against Chelsea on Wednesday.
McTominay scored both of United’s goals either side of a Cole Palmer equaliser to secure three points at Old Trafford. The Scottish international also scored a brace in injury time to beat Brentford in October.
Defender Maguire was stripped of the United captaincy earlier this year, but has bounced back strongly. His 19th-minute header led to McTominay’s opener, with the latter turning in the rebound to put United in front.
Harry Maguire’s Transfer That Never Was
Until the later stages of the summer window, Harry Maguire appeared destined for an Old Trafford exit. The 30-year-old was on the verge of a move, with West Ham manager David Moyes confirming an offer was accepted. But with little time for United to secure a replacement, the move fell through in August.
Having played 31 times for United last season, Maguire played just 26 Premier League minutes during the opening seven games of the season. With the centre-back facing substantial criticism – from both pundits social media – many believed the writing was on the wall.
But since returning to the starting lineup in a 2-1 win against Brentford, Maguire has played every minute in the Premier League. Manager Eric Ten Hag had always stressed Maguire’s importance to the squad and ability to fight for his place, but few would believe his turnaround in form.
Maguire also missed United’s first two group games in the UEFA Champions League, but has since played every minute since.
Scott McTominay’s Form Revival
Like Maguire, Scott McTominay barely featured during the opening weeks of the season. In United’s first four Premier League games, he played just seven minutes of football. The 26-year-old was left out of the squad entirely as United fell to a 3-1 defeat at Arsenal in September.
But with national team coach Steve Clarke keeping faith with the midfielder, he played a crucial role in Scotlands Euro 2024 qualification. McTominay scored against Georgia and Cyrpus to help the Scots on their way to next summer’s tournament, and was given another chance at United.
Since his omission at the Emirates, he has scored six goals in 13 appearances, starting all but one of those. It was his goalscoring cameo against Brentford that epitomised McTominay’s return to form. Having replaced new signing Sofyan Amrabat in the 87th minute, a quick-fire brace in stoppage time rescued victory for United.
Since then, Ten Hag confirmed McTominay will not be allowed to leave the club in January, with the midfielder deemed too important.
Another double against Chelsea further reinforced just how crucial McTominay has become to Eric Ten Hag. With the manager under pressure, he has been able to rely on both McTominay and Maguire when it matters most.
Could Jadon Sancho Make A Man United Return?
One United player who has not yet managed a glorious return is Jadon Sancho. The fallout between the 23-year-old and Ten Hag has been well documented and continues to rumble on.
Sancho last featured for United against Nottingham Forest in August, playing 30 minutes in United’s 3-2 victory at Old Trafford.
But with most expecting an exit for Sancho – either in January or the summer – could we see another shock revival?
Few clubs will be comfortable with the winger’s wage demands; Sancho currently earns £350,000 a week.
With several years remaining on his contract, there is still time for the England international to make a comeback. Many clubs won’t be able to afford Sancho, nor want to take a chance on someone who’s played so little football.
Should he and Ten Hag settle their differences, Sancho is an undoubted talent. While a return to the fold may look unlikely, the same was said for Maguire and McTominay.
Both are now vital parts of this United squad, showing just how quickly things could change for their exiled teammate.
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