Erik Ten Hag "Very Happy" That Harry Maguire Is Staying Despite Man United Accepting West Ham Offer

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has said that he is "very happy" to be keeping Harry Maguire after the England defender rejected a transfer to West Ham.

Maguire's Old Trafford career appeared to be coming to a close earlier this month when United accepted a £30 million offer from the Hammers.

But Maguire - who had cost United £80m when he joined from Leicester in 2019 - decided against moving to the London Stadium.

Maguire has featured in 175 games for the Red Devils but he started just eight times in the Premier League last season.

After losing his place in Ten Hag's best XI, Maguire was removed from his role as United captain this summer.

But Ten Hag is adamant that the 30-year-old center-back still has an important role to play as a member of his squad.

One of the criticisms aimed at Maguire throughout his time with United is that he seems to be incapable of playing in a high defensive line. However, Ten Hag disagrees. 

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Ten Hag told reporters: "He knows what I expect from a center-half. He can do it.

"He has the abilities to do it, so he has to show it. It's about character, to be convinced to play that role. He has all the abilities and it's up to him when the time is there."

Harry Maguire pictured (center) playing for Manchester United during a 1-0 win over West Ham in October 2022

IMAGO/PA Images/David Davies

When asked if he knew why Maguire had decided not to join West Ham, Ten Hag replied: "That process, that's what I don't know.

"Harry is a player for us. I'm happy he's here. We need a good squad.

"We have four good center-halves - with Luke Shaw if you count him, we have five - and we need that because we are going to play 50-60 games this season.

"All the players are internationals, so we have a lot of load to cover, so yeah, I'm very happy Harry Maguire is here.

"He has to fight for his position, as does everyone in this squad."