Harry Maguire Responds to Luke Littler’s No. 9 Request After Dramatic Man United Win
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire humorously addressed darts prodigy Luke Littler’s playful suggestion that he take the No. 9 shirt next season, following a thrilling Europa League semi-final berth against Lyon. Maguire’s extra-time header sealed a stunning 5-4 comeback (7-6 on aggregate) at Old Trafford, overturning a 4-2 deficit.
Littler, the 18-year-old darts sensation, posted on Instagram, sharing a clip of Maguire’s goal and writing: “@harrymaguire93 can you wear the no9 next year please sir u beauty 😍.” Maguire responded lightheartedly on his Instagram story with four laughing emojis, playfully acknowledging the request.
The match saw United trailing after Alexandre Lacazette’s 109th-minute strike, but Bruno Fernandes’ penalty in the 114th minute and Kobbie Mainoo’s composed finish six minutes later leveled the score. Maguire, venturing forward, nodded in Casemiro’s cross to spark wild celebrations.
Manager Ruben Amorim downplayed starting Maguire as a striker full-time, saying, “In a normal game, no. But in these moments, he’s vital. Inside the box, he’s a striker, not a defender—he knows how to own that space.” Reflecting on the win, Amorim added, “The sound of those last goals was amazing, but we must focus on the semi-finals and aim to win the competition.”
The victory, hailed as a “miracle” by Rio Ferdinand, sets United up against Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals, with Amorim’s squad riding high on momentum.
