Maguire was left out of Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man England squad, a decision that has drawn fresh attention as the national team’s defence faced questions during the World Cup.
Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa offer pace, mobility and quality in possession. The concern, however, is whether England have enough authority behind the midfield.
Rooney’s criticism focused on structure rather than individual ability. He pointed to moments when Elliot Anderson moved away from his position and argued that experienced defenders were needed to keep England’s shape intact.
Gary Neville made a similar assessment after the win, describing a back line that appeared more like a collection of individuals than a settled unit. That is precisely the leadership role Maguire has often filled.
At club level, Maguire’s importance appears to be rising. His return to a back four under Michael Carrick last season helped bring greater organisation to United’s defensive shape.
One match he missed was the 2-1 defeat by Leeds at Old Trafford, when United looked more open and less controlled. That does not make Maguire the sole answer to the team’s defensive problems, but it reinforces the value of his communication.
With Matthijs de Ligt recovering from back surgery, Maguire is expected to begin the campaign in a strong position. A full pre-season could also help him establish himself as one of the senior figures in a changing squad.
United’s midfield is changing too. Casemiro has gone, while another young player could line up alongside Kobbie Mainoo. That transition increases the need for calm, instruction and positional discipline behind them.
Maguire’s England omission may have closed one door, but it could make his United role even more important.
The next test will come during pre-season and the opening fixtures, when Carrick’s defensive plans - and Maguire’s place within them - begin to take shape.