Nemanja Vidic feels the current United skipper will have to win trophies to reach the top level. He has been a defensive stalwart at Old Trafford ever since joining the club in 2019 from Leicester City.
Maguire led United to a second-placed finish in the English Premier League last season. The Red Devils also fell short in the Europa League finals as they lost against Villareal on penalties. But the former Serbian defender wants the Englishman to do better in the coming years to be considered among top defenders.
“He’s a defender who is still improving, but if he wants to be recognised at the highest level he has to win trophies. When I look at Maguire I see a defender who is good at everything, 8/10 at everything.
“He’s not as good on the ball or as fast as Rio Ferdinand was for example, and he doesn’t tackle or head like I did, but he has quality across his game. He’s fast enough, he’s strong enough, he can jump and play the ball, his positioning is fine.”
The former United skipper was also impressed with full-back Luke Shaw. The Red Devils left back has been one of the best players for England at the Euros.
“Shaw came to United just after I left. He has suffered from injuries but was one of United’s best players last season.
“We always knew Shaw was dangerous in attack but he’s improved a lot defensively, especially his positioning and especially when his team play three at the back.”
The way England are playing the Euros can well be the first major trophy for Maguire and Shaw. The Three Lions will take on Denmark in the semi-finals of the European Championship. Vidic feels that the Manchester United duo may go on a silverware spree if they manage to reach the finals and win against Italy.
Manchester United have shown great signs of improvement in recent times under the tutelage of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The Red Devils have finally managed to rope in Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund after a year-long negotiation with the player and the club.
The Red Devils are also negotiating with Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane. Manchester United want a solid centre back option alongside Maguire, and they have made the Frenchman their priority as he has denied a contract extension with Los Blancos.
Lastly, United are also holding talks with Stade Rennais midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. The young French midfielder is one of the most sought after youngsters in world football.
