Harry Maguire's defending came under criticism once again after the Manchester United player was seen grappling with his own teammate, Noussair Mazraoui, moments before Hull City scored their opening goal.
During the incident, Maguire had his arm around Mazraoui as the ball rebounded off the post and into the danger area, where Hull's Semi Ajayi scored in the 17th minute. Had Maguire not obstructed Mazraoui, either player might have been positioned to challenge for the ball.
This defensive confusion was further highlighted by teammate Luke Shaw's post-match comments, which expressed disappointment regarding the team's lack of preparation for set-pieces under manager Michael Carrick. "Disappointing, I think we knew Hull’s strengths," Shaw stated. "Set-plays and wide positions and crosses into the box. At times we did defend well, but the goals, set-plays, not good enough. We knew they were going to be good from set-plays and ultimately it’s cost us the three points today."
Shaw added, "Really disappointing. It’s not us and we knew it was coming. I think as a whole, as a group, collectively, we could prepare better. Especially knowing how good they are at set-plays and what their dangers are."
Manchester United conceded a second goal from a set-piece later in the first half when Nobel Mendy scored in the 38th minute.
Social media reactions reflected confusion among football fans. Some criticized Maguire, with comments such as "Maguire has done it again" and "Maguire please don't bring back the old version of yourself." Others defended him, with one user noting, "No Maguire slander would be tolerated. Man was our second best player today after Mbeumo." Another fan shifted blame to the entire team, stating, "All of them are standing like statues and that's what p***** me off. Nobody charged. Nobody. Pathetic when it comes to passion."
This incident is not the first time Maguire has been involved in similar defensive misplays. He has previously been noted for accidentally fouling Shaw in 2020, resulting in a goal, and once kicked Paul Pogba in the head. He also appealed for a handball against teammate Nemanja Matic during a match.
Maguire played for Hull City between 2014 and 2017 before joining Manchester United from Leicester City in 2019 for a reported £80 million. He signed a one-year contract extension in April, with an option for an additional year. His weekly wages have reportedly decreased to £120,000 from approximately £180,000, aligning with the club's revised salary structure.