Maguire’s magic on the wing sparks Ronaldinho comparisons in United win

Dubai: Harry Maguire has been called many things — but “Harroldinho” might be a first.

The nickname, coined by Bruno Fernandes after Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in Europa League semi-finals, came in honour of Maguire’s unlikely brilliance down the right wing. Twisting past a defender, the centre-back whipped in a cross that led to Casemiro’s opener — a moment that left fans stunned and social media buzzing.

“Harry is a much more confident man now,” Fernandes said. “He’s a very good leader — we hope he keeps improving.”

United rode an early Bilbao storm before Maguire’s run flipped the script. Soon after, Daniel Vivian was sent off for pulling down Rasmus Hojlund in the box, and Fernandes slotted in the penalty.

The captain added a second just before half-time, finishing a slick back-heel from Manuel Ugarte. By then, the home crowd’s hopes — and patience — were wearing thin.

With the final set to be played at San Mames, fans had dreamed of a fairytale. Instead, they waved their pre-match tifo cards in protest at the referee.

United coach Ruben Amorim said he expected his senior players to deliver on a night like this. “They’re international players — that’s why they’re here,” he said. “It’s natural for them to step up.”

Maguire, however, wasn’t getting carried away. “It wouldn’t save the season,” he admitted. “We’ve been too inconsistent. But football is about creating memories — and we have a chance to give the fans something to cheer.”

United will look to finish the job at Old Trafford next Thursday. With Champions League qualification now hinging on Europa League success, there’s little margin for error.

But for now, Maguire’s magic moment — part Ronaldinho, part redemption — belongs to him.