Harry Maguire didn’t go back with his Manchester United teammates after the shocking loss to Hull City on Saturday – and now the reason is clear.
United were expected to start the 2026/27 Premier League season with a win against Hull, who were unexpectedly promoted to England’s top division in May. But the Red Devils were far from their best when they lost 2-0 at MKM Stadium. The newly promoted team took a surprising two-goal lead into half-time, with Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy scoring goals.
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United did everything they could to get back into the game in the second half, but were unable to penetrate Konstantinos Tzolakis in the Hull cage.
Maguire had a tough night against his old club
Maguire didn’t have his best day against his former club. The 33-year-old was powerless to prevent Hull from scoring twice in the first half, and many have ridiculed him for his role in Ajayi’s opening goal.
After the game, it emerged that Maguire – who is one of the world’s highest-paid English footballers – did not travel back to Manchester on the team bus with the other players.
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Rumours swirled online that Maguire had been involved in a “massive altercation” after the defeat, which reportedly led to him leaving the team bus and leaving on his own.
However, Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun has denied these claims. According to reports, Maguire had a personal problem he had to deal with, and he had been given permission to return home alone.
United’s players had Sunday off and did not have to train, which meant they could travel separately from the MKM Stadium. Although the nature of the personal issue is not known, it is possible that he returned to his hometown of Sheffield – given his proximity to Hull.
Maguire is aiming to stay at United
Maguire is now 33 years old and nearing the end of his career, but former United defender Danny Simpson believes he will stay at the club for at least a few more seasons.
“I don’t think this will be his last season at United. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s our regular centre-back again this season,” Simpson said, according to Goal.
“He has never relied on lightning-fast speed. He knows how to defend his own box, he’s good with the ball, and he’s good in the opponent’s box. That’s not going to change overnight.
“He’s a leader, he’s been captain, and even though he’s not anymore, he’s still a captain in the dressing room. I think Luke Shaw is going to take over, but you have to keep Harry for the experience he brings.
“I think he’s a player you keep giving one more year, and eventually he can get a smaller role – but he would take it at 33-34 years old. He loves the club and may even stay as a coach when he retires.
United and Maguire are back in action on Sunday 30 August, when they host Ipswich Town at Old Trafford.
