Manchester United's defensive woes have deepened as Harry Maguire will be absent for Saturday's crucial Premier League match against Chelsea after receiving an additional one-match suspension.
The 33-year-old England defender was originally banned for his red card during last month's 2-2 draw at Bournemouth, where he conceded a penalty by pulling down Evanilson in the 78th minute. However, the Football Association has now imposed further punishment for Maguire's conduct as he left the pitch.
According to the FA's written reasons, fourth official Matt Donohue reported that "Maguire, as he was leaving the field of play, approached me and shouted 'You're a joke. You're all a ******* joke'."
Maguire contested the specifics in his written submission, stating: "As I left the field of play following my dismissal I said something along the lines of 'it is a ******** joke'. I am certain that I did not call the fourth official or any match official, a joke or use any other form of insult."
Despite his denial about targeting officials directly, Maguire acknowledged his behavior was inappropriate and offered an apology. The regulatory commission considered a two-match ban but settled on one additional game after taking mitigating factors into account, including Maguire's acceptance of the charge. He has also been fined £30,000.
United's defensive crisis extends beyond Maguire's absence. Lisandro Martinez will also miss the Chelsea trip after receiving a red card for violent conduct during Monday's 2-1 defeat to Leeds, where he pulled Dominic Calvert-Lewin's hair. Manager Michael Carrick called it "one of the worst" decisions he has seen and indicated the club plans to appeal.
Adding to the selection headache, Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined with a persistent back issue. This leaves Carrick with only two recognized central defenders available—19-year-old Ayden Heaven and 20-year-old Leny Yoro—as United prepare to face a Chelsea side they trail by three points in the Premier League standings.