Harry Maguire was heavily criticised by Roy Keane ahead of Manchester United’s clash with Manchester City – and the England defender had the perfect opportunity to prove his doubter wrong.
Harry Maguire’s performance on the pitch spoke volumes – despite being on the receiving end of harsh criticism from Roy Keane ahead of Saturday’s Manchester derby. The ex-Manchester United skipper didn’t hold back in his critique of Maguire’s upbeat remarks about Michael Carrick’s appointment as the Reds geared up for one of their most challenging matches of the season.
Dave Jones, reading out Carrick’s programme notes on Sky Sports, said: “Michael Carrick has spoken to the United crowd as they arrive. He says it’s been a fantastic week, the training ground environment is really positive, the players have applied themselves brilliantly, and there’s been a great atmosphere amongst all the staff. That’s all good to hear, isn’t it, Roy?”
However, Keane was far from impressed with what he’d heard, swiftly replying: “Well, what do you expect them to say? Listening to Harry Maguire there, saying there’s a good vibe, there’s energy in the place.
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“Of course, that’s going to happen when the new manager comes in. We’ve heard that for the last 50, 60, 70 years.
“A new manager walks in and says; ‘There’s a spring in everyone’s step, training’s been sharper, everyone’s in a good mood’. Well, fantastic, because you know what you’re here to do?
“What you’re here to do at Man United – I used to fall out with lots of people at United; I did, believe it or not. You have to remind people, and I’m including Harry Maguire, you’re here to win. You’re here to win; end of story.
“This idea that everyone’s best pals with each other, and there’s energy. No wonder Harry spoke well of him; he thought; ‘If I speak well, I might get back in the team’. That’s what seems to happen there… We’ll see what Harry does when the game starts.”
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Keane’s comments may well have come back to haunt him following the clash between United and City at the Theatre of Dreams, where his former side emerged victorious, with all three points. Despite first-half goals from Amad and Bruno Fernandes being ruled out, United dominated proceedings after the break.
Bryan Mbeumo wasted no time settling back into Premier League action following his AFCON return, opening the scoring in the 65th minute, before Patrick Dorgu wrapped up proceedings over 10 minutes later in a comfortable 2-0 victory.
Maguire also delivered an outstanding performance, completing the full 90 minutes and helping United keep a clean sheet against formidable attackers, partnering Lisandro Martinez at the back.
Discussing the victory with Sky Sports, Carrick said: “Today was special. Putting things together quickly and trying to put an imprint on the team. Gathering together and emotionally getting attached to what we want to do.
“I felt that unbelievable from the staff and the players. I am not getting carried away. It’s one result, but it needs to be a regular feeling with that level of performance.”
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Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
