Former Liverpool player Danny Murphy has suggested that Harry Maguire could leave Manchester United if he doesn't start regularly for the club after the World Cup.
Maguire has endured a difficult campaign so far this season, with the 29-year-old making just nine appearances in all competitions for Erik ten Hag's side. The Reds captain has only made three Premier League starts and has fallen behind Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane in the pecking order at Old Trafford.
However, the centre-back enjoyed a solid tournament in Qatar and was one of the England's standout performers - playing every single minute as Gareth Southgate's side exited the competition after losing to France in the quarter-finals.
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Murphy has claimed that Maguire deserves the chance to impress when he returns to United, but admitted that he could be forced to leave if he continues to struggle for game time under Ten Hag.
"Harry Maguire should be the first of those England players who faced France to return to domestic action this week and it marks the start of a critical period for him at Manchester United," Murphy wrote in his Daily Mail column.
"With Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez still in Qatar for today’s World Cup final, I assume Maguire will be involved against Burnley in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night, which will give him the chance of a run of matches at Old Trafford.
"He deserves that opportunity after one of the comeback stories of the season. Written off by most people, he was outstanding for his country, which says plenty about his strength of character. It has to be admired.
"The big question is whether his face fits with United manager Erik ten Hag and we’ll find out the answer soon.
"The United team is more efficient with Casemiro protecting the back four and Maguire will benefit. But if he does well and is still replaced once Varane and Martinez are available, the writing will be on the wall."
The 45-year-old went on to suggest that he could see Maguire playing for Newcastle United under Eddie Howe, who he said would benefit from his leadership skills.
He added: "I don’t think the United captain will want to hang around Old Trafford beyond the summer as a bit-part player and there won’t be any shortage of interest if he’s allowed to leave.
"I can see him at Newcastle United, for example, where Eddie Howe will appreciate his strength and leadership."
Maguire - who was appointed Reds captain in 2020 - has made a total of 153 appearances for United since arriving at Old Trafford from Leicester City.
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