Gary Neville defends Harry Maguire after error led to Sevilla’s opening goal vs. Man United

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has defended Harry Maguire after his error led to Sevilla’s opening goal.

On Thursday night, United were hoping to advance to the semi-final of the Europa League but faced a tough test against Sevilla.

Erik ten Hag’s men made a dreadful start as they fell behind after just eight minutes.

David De Gea played a risky pass to Maguire on the edge of the penalty area, which was pounced upon by Sevilla players.

Erik Lamela nipped in to steal the ball, which fell perfectly into the path of Youssef En Nesyri, who cooly dispatched the chance to make it 1-0.

On the back of the mistake, Maguire was slammed by fans.

However, Neville was quick to defend the United captain.

He tweeted: “Maguire will get battered but that pass from De Gea I wouldn’t like!”

Maguire will get battered but that pass from DeGea I wouldn’t like!

— Gary Neville (@GNev2) April 20, 2023

Whilst former United academy player, Robbie Savage also sided with Maguire.

Speaking on BT Sport, Savage said: “United trying to play out from the back, the pass from David de Gea. There’s three white shirts around Harry Maguire, just look. He’s in the middle of the triangle, I’m not sure he wants the ball there.

“It’s good pressing and I tell you what, it’s a wonderful finish. Maguire can do better but why does David de Gea not put the ball out to Wan-Bissaka? The centre half is in the middle of a triangle, three players closing him down.”

Savage continued: “Yes, it’s Maguire’s mistake, but David de Gea surely has got to play the ball to Wan-Bissaka. Very poor. Of course, Manchester United fans and the Manchester United manager would love Fernandes to be playing, he’s not and you can’t legislate for that mistake.

“It’s so poor. Maguire will get the blame but why is David de Gea passing it to him there with three white shirts hunting him down? Just put it wide out of the danger area to Wan-Bissaka, surely?”

In the second half, United conceded two further goals as Sevilla recorded a comfortable 3-0 win on the night, sealing their place in the next round with a 5-2 aggregate win.

United will now look forward to Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final clash against Brighton.