Football: The Harry Maguire Affair
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
The Manchester United Captain and England National Team Defender, Harry Maguire, who is 27, has been given a prison sentence of 21 months and 10 days, suspended for 3 years, after having been found guilty by a Greek Court of several criminal offences, including repeated bodily harm and attempted bribery of the Police. It is alleged that he said to the Police:
“Do you know who I am? I am the captain of Manchester United. I am very rich. I can give you money. I can pay you. Please let us go.”
The criminal proceedings follow an altercation between Maguire at a bar on the Greek island of Mykonos, where he was on holiday.
As a result of this verdict, Maguire has been withdrawn from the England National team for the time being.
The Manager, Gareth Southgate stated:
“I have made this decision in the best interests of all parties.”
No decision has been taken by Manchester United about the future of his captaincy.
Maguire is appealing against the Greek Court verdict, claiming his innocence and that he and his family and friends are the victims of the incident and did not receive a fair trial.
So this sad affair continues and the outcome of the appeal is awaited with interest!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
