Maguire backs Leny Yoro to become Manchester United great

Harry Maguire has tipped Leny Yoro to develop into one of Manchester United’s all-time greats, underlining the defender’s rapid rise as a cornerstone of the club’s resurgence this season.

Yoro’s growing influence was again evident as United held Sunderland to a goalless draw in the Premier League, extending a run of defensive solidity under interim manager Michael Carrick.

The result maintained United’s momentum in the title race and left them six points clear of fourth-placed Liverpool, marking a remarkable turnaround following a turbulent start to the campaign.

Since arriving from Lille in 2024 for £52 million, the 20-year-old has amassed over 60 appearances and quickly established himself as a mainstay in United’s back line.

His composure, positional awareness and maturity have been central to a defence that has tightened significantly in recent months, helping secure the club’s return to Champions League football next season.

Maguire, who has formed a strong partnership with the young Frenchman, believes Yoro possesses all the tools required to reach elite status at Old Trafford.

“Leny Yoro has all the attributes, the talent, and the potential to have whatever career he wants. It’s exceptional to see someone playing centre-back in the Premier League at his age, especially at a club like Manchester United.

“He’s doing an amazing job and there is still so much more he can improve on. Hopefully, in 10 or 15 years’ time, we’re sitting here putting his name in that bracket of the all-time greats.”

Maguire also highlighted the promise of fellow youngster Ayden Heaven, suggesting a long-term defensive partnership could be forming at the club.

Despite transfer links to defenders such as Micky van de Ven, Murillo and Castello Lukeba, Yoro’s position appears increasingly untouchable as he continues his trajectory toward becoming a defining figure in United’s future.