Chelsea Legend John Terry in Awe of Michael Carrick as He Names Man United Star Who Must Go to World Cup

Chelsea legend John Terry has lauded Manchester United defender Harry Maguire following his standout performance in the 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Saturday.

Terry went as far as to suggest that Maguire should be a key part of England's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Red Devils secured a crucial 2-0 win against their local rivals at Old Trafford in a hard-fought Premier League clash. Maguire, who started the match, was a commanding presence, nearly scoring early on when his effort struck the crossbar. Defensively, he was instrumental, winning three of his five duels, making five clearances, five recoveries, and blocking a shot.

Following Patrick Dorgu's goal that sealed the win for United, Terry took to social media to express his admiration for the centre-back. In a video shared online, he stated: "Wow, what a performance for Man U. The game's still not done. Just gone 2 nil.”

“This is the Man United of old. Attacking free flowing football, pace up front. Also, Maguire is such a better team with Harry Maguire back in the squad today, back playing. I'm not sure there's a more difficult game to come into the Manchester Derby, playing against the best striker in the world in Haaland."

Maguire remains the world's most expensive defender after his £80 million transfer from Leicester City to Manchester United in 2019. He has since made 257 appearances for the club, contributing 17 goals and nine assists.

"He's just so good in both boxes and so good on the ball as well. See him about 10 minutes ago, drive out of the ball, so comfortable with it. On this form, Harry Maguire has to be on the plane for the World Cup. You heard it here first," added Terry.

The derby victory marked a significant turnaround for Manchester United, who entered the match under new interim manager Michael Carrick and without a win in their previous four games and Terry reserved praise for the former United midfielder.

“Massive performance for Man United today under Michael Carrick who has gone with the full [Eric] Cantona with his collar up on his jacket. But so good to see Carrick get his opportunity as well. Steve Holland working alongside him. Man United certainly look back to what they used to be, pace,” he said.

United started brightly against Pep Guardiola’s team, creating several first-half opportunities. Bruno Fernandes found the net twice, but both goals were correctly disallowed for offside.

United's persistence paid off in the second half. Bryan Mbeumo broke the deadlock in the 65th minute with a goal on the counter-attack, before Patrick Dorgu doubled the lead just 11 minutes later to secure the three points.