Manchester United's Harry Maguire Played Injured Against Coventry City Amid Injury Crisis, Reveals Teammate Casemiro

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire played through injury in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City on April 23, 2024, according to teammate Casemiro. Maguire scored in the 3-3 draw, which United ultimately won on penalties, despite being injured from the start of the match.

Casemiro disclosed that Maguire was the only available senior center-back for United, with Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans all sidelined due to injuries. The Brazilian midfielder partnered with Maguire in defense and praised his teammate's determination and effort in playing through the injury. "Harry Maguire was injured from the start of the game, but still put in a commendable performance," Casemiro said.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag did not provide an excuse for the team's growing injury crisis, which Casemiro acknowledged "ends up hurting" the squad. The Red Devils surrendered a 3-0 lead in the final 20 minutes of the match, forcing the game into extra time before prevailing on penalties. Maguire admitted that the team "let themselves down" and were "disappointed" with how they "acted" in the closing stages.

Why this matters: Manchester United's injury woes have become a significant challenge for the club as they aim to secure a European qualification spot in the Premier League. The depleted squad, particularly in defense, has forced manager Erik ten Hag to rely on makeshift solutions and players performing through pain, highlighting the team's resilience and determination to succeed despite adversity.

Ten Hag dismissed the media's reaction to United's performance as an "embarrassment" and a "disgrace," arguing that the team deserved to reach the final. The Dutch manager also defended winger Antony's controversial celebration, stating that he had been "provoked." As Manchester United prepare to face Sheffield United in the Premier League, they will likely have to rely on Casemiro to partner with Maguire in central defense once again, with changes expected in midfield and attack due to fitness concerns surrounding Scott McTominay, Bruno Fernandes, and Marcus Rashford.

Key Takeaways

• Maguire played through injury in FA Cup semi-final, scoring despite injury.
• Casemiro praised Maguire's determination in playing with injury due to squad injuries.
• United surrendered 3-0 lead but won on penalties, with Maguire disappointed in team's performance.
• United's injury crisis forces Ten Hag to rely on makeshift solutions and players playing through pain.
• Ten Hag defends Antony's celebration, expects changes in midfield and attack for next match.