Man Utd star Harry Maguire aims jab at Erik ten Hag with Ruben Amorim verdict

Harry Maguire has hailed Manchester United’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester City as a significant ‘statement’ win under the guidance of new head coach Ruben Amorim. And the 31-year-old hailed United’s successful approach at the Etihad Stadium, lamenting their previous visits under Erik ten Hag.

United left their bitter rivals stunned with an incredible late comeback on Sunday evening to avoid a third consecutive Premier League defeat.

The Red Devils trailed in the 89th minute after Josko Gvardiol turned Kevin De Bruyne’s deflected cross home with his head in the first half.

However, Amorim’s side turned the game on its head through goals from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo to clinch three vital points and worsen Pep Guardiola’s woes.

After full-time, Maguire acknowledged that there was still a considerable distance to cover in their bid to reclaim former glories.

Yet, the United No. 5 is convinced that inflicting an eighth defeat in 11 games on Guardiola’s side sends a resounding message about their new direction.

“We had chances, we pushed in the end and got the reward I felt like we deserved,” Maguire assessed at the Etihad.

“It was a great performance to go there, have 50-50 of the ball and have the same amount of shots as them.

“It’s not been like that in recent years, so it’s an improvement, but there’s still a long way to go.

“Winning football matches is really important. When you play for this club, it demands winning.

“Obviously, we had back-to-back defeats in the Premier League, so to go there 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.

“Like I said, I’m sure it’s going to be a positive journey.”

Maguire heaped further praise on Amorim, expressing his excitement and optimism about the Portuguese boss’ vision.

He added: “I think you can see we have a good structure, a good style of play, the way that he wants us to work.

“But, yeah, I think his demands, he’s tactically very good. He’s proven that he’s a winner. And, look, we’re still pretty new. I think he’s been here a month now or so.

“But we’re really looking forward to where we can go and where we can take this club, and I’m sure he’ll take it in a positive way.”

Amad stole the headlines by drawing the foul for Fernandes’ equalising penalty before epitomising composure with his stoppage time dagger to the hearts of City.

And while Maguire gave Amad his flowers, he has urged as much calm as the 22-year-old winger showed when one-on-one against Ederson when it comes to hyping up his potential.

“He’s done really well this season. Look, he’s only still a young boy and has a lot to learn,” Maguire explained.

“I’m sure he’ll get loads of experience playing in these big matches, and I’m sure he’s got a big future for this club.

“We’re happy that he’s doing well, but, like I said, there’s still a long way to go. He’s got a big job to help us climb the table and to improve this club.”