Chelsea icon John Terry has issued a passionate plea for England manager Thomas Tuchel to recall Manchester United defender Harry Maguire to the national squad for this summer's World Cup.
The former Three Lions captain was left thoroughly impressed by Maguire's commanding performance in United's stunning 2-0 victory over rivals Manchester City at the weekend.
Terry's TikTok Verdict on United's Revival
Taking to TikTok after the match on Saturday, January 18, 2026, Terry heaped praise on the Red Devils' display under interim boss Michael Carrick.
'Wow what a performance from Man United. This is the Man United of old,' Terry declared. 'Attacking, free-flowing football, pace up front. Massive performance from Manchester United today under Michael Carrick.'
The win, secured by goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, marked a sensational start to Carrick's second stint in temporary charge and provided a stark contrast to the team's previous form under Ruben Amorim.
Maguire's Heroics Against Haaland Earns High Praise
Terry, a world-class centre-back in his own right, reserved special acclaim for Maguire, who was thrust back into the starting line-up after a lengthy hamstring injury.
'Man United is such a better team with Harry Maguire in the squad today, back playing,' said the iconic defender. 'I'm not sure there's a more difficult game to come into. A Manchester derby playing against the best striker in the world in Erling Haaland.'
Terry highlighted Maguire's all-round game, noting his comfort in possession and defensive solidity. 'He's just so good in both boxes and so good on the ball as well. Saw him drive out with the ball and was so comfortable with it. In this form, Harry Maguire has to be on the plane for the World Cup.'
The 32-year-old Maguire, who has 64 England caps, has not featured for his country since Tuchel's appointment.
Carrick's Calculated Gamble Pays Off
Interim manager Michael Carrick admitted that selecting Maguire was a risk, given the player had only trained for a few days after nearly two months out.
'It was a bit of a calculated gamble,' Carrick confessed. 'I felt it was a game for experience and knowing what it feels like. It was a big ask for H [Maguire] and credit to him... I thought he was fantastic. Between him and Licha [Martinez], they were so solid at the back.'
The victory has naturally raised expectations at Old Trafford, but Carrick was quick to emphasise the need for consistency, starting with a tough trip to Arsenal the following Sunday.
'Consistency is the key to any success,' he stated. 'Big one next week, obviously another tough one. But on the back of today, we've got a good foundation to build on.'
With a World Cup on the horizon, Terry's powerful endorsement has thrown Maguire's international future firmly back into the spotlight, suggesting his England story may not be over.
