Harry Maguire: Manchester United’s ‘Statement’ Derby Win Over Man City Signals New Era Under Amorim
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire believes their dramatic 2-1 victory over rivals Manchester City will provide a massive confidence boost as the team adjusts to life under new manager Ruben Amorim. The thrilling derby win at the Etihad Stadium marked Amorim’s biggest triumph since taking charge and offered United fans a rare highlight in what has otherwise been a challenging season.
The win came as a shock to many, with City looking to end their poor run of form. Josko Gvardiol’s header had put the defending champions ahead and seemingly on course for victory. However, Manchester United turned the game around in dramatic fashion, with Bruno Fernandes equalizing from the penalty spot in the 88th minute before Amad Diallo sealed the win with a stunning 90th-minute goal.
A ‘Statement’ Victory to Build Belief
Following the victory, Maguire, who played a key role in United’s defensive resilience, emphasized the importance of the result for the team’s belief and progress under Amorim’s leadership. “It’s been a difficult start to the season for us and not much for our fans to cheer about,” Maguire admitted.
“To come here, put a performance like that in, and share 50-50 of the ball with a team like City – it’s a big statement. It’s not been like that in recent years, so it’s an improvement but still a long way to go.”
The win ended a troubling run for United, who had suffered back-to-back Premier League defeats to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest earlier in the month. Despite the victory, the Red Devils remain 13th in the Premier League table, underscoring the work still required to turn their season around.
Maguire believes the derby victory is pivotal to restoring confidence and belief within the squad. “To come here and put a statement down is really important for our confidence and the belief of where we’re going and where Ruben’s going to take us,” Maguire said. “I’m sure it’s going to be a positive journey.”
Amorim’s Impact at Manchester United
Ruben Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag last month, has wasted little time implementing his tactical philosophy at Manchester United. The Portuguese manager, known for his success at Sporting Lisbon, has brought a fresh structure and style to the squad.
Maguire praised Amorim’s influence, highlighting his ability to create a clear tactical identity. “I think you can see we have a good structure, a good style of play, the way that he wants us to work,” Maguire said. “But, yeah, I think his demands, he’s tactically very good. He’s proven that he’s a winner.”
Amorim’s arrival has injected much-needed optimism into the club. While his tenure began with two defeats, including a loss to Arsenal, the derby win against City showcases the potential for improvement under his leadership. United’s organization, pressing, and resilience in key moments were all on display at the Etihad.
Turning Point for United’s Season?
Manchester United’s victory is all the more significant given the dominance City have enjoyed in recent derbies. Under Pep Guardiola, City had consistently outclassed United in possession, shots, and control. Maguire pointed to the team’s performance as evidence of progress under Amorim.
“It was a great performance in the end to come here and have 50-50 of the ball, have the same amount of shots as them,” he said. “It’s not been like that in recent years.”
For the fans – Manchester is red ❤️ pic.twitter.com/8MF2nfY2NM
— Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) December 15, 2024
The dramatic win could serve as a turning point for United, who now need consistency to climb up the table. With key fixtures ahead, including games against Everton and Leicester before the year ends, the Red Devils have an opportunity to build momentum.
City’s Struggles Highlight United’s Progress
The derby defeat extended Manchester City’s alarming slump, with Pep Guardiola’s side now suffering eight defeats in their last 11 matches across all competitions. Defensive lapses and uncharacteristic errors have plagued City’s performances, allowing United to capitalize on late opportunities in the derby.
Maguire recognized the significance of winning against such a formidable opponent, particularly at a time when City were desperate to rediscover their form. “Obviously, we had back-to-back defeats in the Premier League, so to come here and win is huge,” he said.
Amad Diallo’s Heroics and Bruno’s Leadership
Amad Diallo was instrumental in United’s comeback, first winning the penalty that Fernandes converted and then scoring the winner in the dying moments. The young winger’s impact highlights the depth and potential Amorim has at his disposal.
Captain Bruno Fernandes, who coolly converted the equalizing penalty, also played a vital leadership role. Fernandes’ composure and creativity remain critical to United’s hopes of improvement, particularly as the team adapts to Amorim’s tactical demands.
Harry Maguire’s defensive stats vs. Man Utd:
100% tackle win rate
100% ground duels won
5 interceptions
3 clearances
3 tackles attempted
3 tackles won
1 blockColossal performance. pic.twitter.com/yCpqOp7pZk
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) December 15, 2024
Looking Ahead: United’s Path Under Amorim
The derby win offers Ruben Amorim a platform to build upon as he continues to implement his philosophy at Manchester United. Known for his innovative approach and man-management skills, Amorim has already shown flashes of what he can bring to Old Trafford.
The challenge now for United will be to carry this momentum into the festive period and beyond. Consistency remains key, and United will need to prove that the victory over City was not a one-off.
Harry Maguire’s confidence in Amorim reflects a growing sense of belief within the squad. “We just need to stick together and trust in the process,” Maguire reiterated. “We have the structure, the tactics, and now it’s about building on performances like this.”
As United continue their rebuild under Amorim, the derby triumph will serve as a reminder of the team’s potential. While they remain far from the top of the table, the victory represents a significant step forward in what Maguire calls a “positive journey.”
For Manchester United fans, the dramatic win at the Etihad offers renewed hope for the future under Amorim’s leadership.
READ NEXT:
