National Football Team NewsDoes Harry Maguire Need a Break after a Nightmare Showing?
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The Manchester United captain, Harry Maguire looked out of confidence in the Nations League 0-1 loss to Denmark.

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Maguire suffered a chaotic and disorganized 31 minutes before he had himself out on his own misery as England lost to Denmark in Wembley. His pre-mature departure brought up questions of whether he needs a break from the game.

The beginning of the performance was painful to watch as there were instances of bad positioning, a suggestion of an injury, and then the amateurish control that led to the desperate lunge on Kasper Dolberg that not only injured the striker but also sent Maguire down the tunnel.

When referee Jesus Gil Manzano showed him the red card, Maguire had a look of an individual who had hit rock bottom.

Maguire’s nightmare began in August when he received a suspension sentence for 21 months and 10 days in prison after a trial on Syros.

The 27-year-old maintained his innocence and ledged an appeal. This means a retrial and the convection being set aside in the meantime. However, it looks and feels like the weight from the incident and its public aftermath has carried over into the new season.

Maguire has a cut struggling figure as United’s defense has been run ragged by Crystal Palace, Brighton, and Tottenham in the 6-1 the humiliating defeat at home.

This performance from the defender sent out distress signals from the first whistle blow. His control was poor, discipline was worse and a pass, clearance looked like a mountain to him.

Maguire’s display in the pitch must be criticized. Needless to say, his fragile form and a confused mental approach to the game will need careful handling not just by Southgate but also by Solskjaer.

The defender looks like one who might greatly benefit from some time on the sidelines to gather his thoughts, clear his head, and get back the personality that had a great impact at Old Trafford.

Will Maguire really accept a break from football?

It is a pretty difficult balancing act because the defender might not wish to be taken out of the line of fire. And as such are United’s current struggles that Solskjaer may feel he needs his leader going into battle for him.

What remains clear is he needs more sympathy and support from Solskjaer and United. His red card was a low point on a very indifferent night for England. This was actually the first time they have had two players sent off with Reece James dismissed for dissent.

Consequently, after the final whistle blow, it was a night marked with questions for England, Southgate, and Maguire. There is a need to have a much braver approach than what was in the pitch when it comes to the end of the major tournament.

For Maguire, it was a desperate experience he will want to clear from his head in a hurry.