Harry Maguire suffers latest Man Utd setback in final pre-season match of summer 2023

Harry Maguire had another afternoon to forget for Manchester United on Sunday as the Red Devils drew 1-1 with Athletic Bilbao in Dublin.

United finished pre-season with a weakened side in the Irish capital, with Erik ten Hag’s first string playing in the 3-1 win against Lens the day before at Old Trafford. But Sunday’s game was still an important exercise for United, with six players featuring for 90 minutes as the preparations ahead of the 2023/24 campaign continue.

Maguire was among that cohort, but suffered another calamitous error at the back as he gifted the ball to Inigo Lekue, who then slipped in Nico Williams to score after 29 minutes. It’s the latest in the long run of mistakes from the ex-Leicester City man, who had the captaincy stripped off him this summer.

Maguire was also booed by the United fans when he touched the ball at the Aviva Stadium, another indication it’s perhaps time for the player and club to part ways. The England international has attracted interest from West Ham United, among others in the Premier League.

The match did end on a happier note for Maguire, however, as he set up Facundo Pellistri for an injury-time equaliser. The Uruguayan put in a superb display in Dublin, but is still expected to leave the club on loan before the transfer window closes.

Meanwhile, the 1-1 scoreline in Ireland means United finished pre-season with four wins, three defeats and a draw from eight friendlies. Ten Hag’s side begin the 2023/24 campaign at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on 14 August, with supporters’ group The 1958 announcing on Sunday that they plan to stage a protest ahead of the match.