'I am sad for Harry Maguire' – Giorgio Chiellini says Manchester United 'require too much' from defender

Former Juventus and Italy star Giorgio Chiellini says he feels “sad” for Harry Maguire after the criticism he has faced over the last 12 months. A series of mistakes and poor performances from Maguire has seen him come under scrutiny from fans and he was dropped from Erik ten Hag’s side after Manchester United’s 4-0 defeat to Brentford. Ad Cristiano Ronaldo, along with Raphael Varane and Paul Pogba, reportedly said “Maguire is part of the problem” in February.

Transfers'The next chapter' — Chiellini confirms he has signed for LAFC13/06/2022 AT 17:39 “I am sad for Maguire's situation because he is a good player,” Chiellini told The Times. “They require too much of him. Just because they paid £80 million for him, he has to be the best in the world every match? It's not right.

“The value of the market is dependent on many aspects you can't control. It's not your fault." Maguire has been picked for England’s upcoming Nations League games against Italy and Germany, which take place on Friday and next Monday. Should the 29-year-old struggle to find form, he may not feature at the Qatar World Cup, which takes place from November 20 to December 18.

Chiellini believes Maguire, plus John Stones, showed they had a good partnership at Euro 2020 last year when England lost to Italy in the final on penalties. “Him and [John] Stones are a good duo,” continued Chiellini. “OK, Maguire maybe is not Rio Ferdinand but he's good enough.