The captain will not be demoted by the club
Manchester United have decided not to demote captain Harry Maguire, despite the fact that he was found guilty of aggravated assault in a Greek trial earlier this week.
According to MEN, the club has no plans to make a decision in the near future, nor is there an emergency meeting planned between Maguire, his manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or the club’s board.
The club released a statement after Maguire’s verdict was handed down, in which they stated their belief that the trial was rushed.
“Manchester United notes the verdict of the Greek courts today. Harry Maguire pleaded not guilty to all charges made against him and he continues to strongly assert his innocence,” the club said.
“It should be noted the the prosecution confirmed the charges and provided the evidence late on the day before the trial, giving the defence team minimal time to digest them and prepare.
“A request for the case to be adjourned was subsequently denied. On this basis, along with the substantial body of evidence refuting the charges, Harry Maguire’s legal team will now appeal the verdict, to allow a full and fair hearing at a later date.”
Maguire was withdrawn for the England squad, which he had been named in hours earlier, by manager Gareth Southgate after the England coach had discussions with United.
In a statement, Southgate said:
“In light of this evening’s developments, I can confirm I have withdrawn Harry Maguire from the England squad for the matches against Iceland and Denmark.
“As I said earlier today, I reserved the right to review the situation. Having spoken to Manchester United and the player, I have made this decision in the best interests of all parties and with consideration of the impact on our preparations for next week.”
