After a crucial penalty victory over Arsenal that secured their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup, Harry Maguire took the opportunity to reflect on Manchester United’s ongoing season and his personal performances.
Maguire, who has been under intense scrutiny over the past year, spoke openly about the challenges the team has faced and the progress he feels has been made. With his confidence on the rise, Maguire detailed his thoughts on the team’s mentality, the difficult stretch of away games, and his own return to form.
“Every game is crucial, and we really need to step up for each other,” Maguire began. “It’s been tough, especially when we don’t always have the full support we need. It’s been a challenge, but we’ve shown real character in recent weeks, and that’s something that we can build on.” Maguire highlighted that, despite the challenges, United’s spirit and attitude have remained strong, with a shift in mentality becoming increasingly evident within the squad.
The past few weeks have seen United face some of the Premier League’s toughest sides away from home, including Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool. Reflecting on those matches, Maguire believes the team has competed strongly in all of them. “We were in all those games,” he remarked. “Yes, we were beaten last time, but it was only by two set pieces. Apart from that, there wasn’t much between us and Arsenal on that day. We were 1-0 up at the 60-minute mark before the sending off changed things.”
Maguire emphasized that despite the final result, there were several positives to take from the performance. “We defended well. We had a good shape and were solid in our box. The goalkeeper (Altay Bayandir) made some big saves when we needed them,” Maguire added. “It’s important to stay together and keep believing, especially when things are tough. But we also have to keep our feet on the ground. Our league position tells the story—we still have a long way to go.”
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
Looking forward, Maguire knows the importance of continuing to build momentum. “We can’t afford to rest. The league table isn’t where we want it to be, and that’s something we need to address quickly. The upcoming games are massive for us,” he warned. “We have to keep pushing forward and take each game as it comes.”
On a personal level, Maguire has been in good form recently, playing consistently well at the heart of United’s defense. When asked if this was the best he has played at United, he humbly acknowledged his strong performances but tempered his response. “I think my first couple of years at United were probably the best part of my career so far,” Maguire reflected. “But yes, I feel I’m getting back to that level now. I’m 31 and approaching 32 soon, but physically and mentally, I feel good again.”
Maguire also noted that he believes he was at a similar level last season, though it wasn’t without challenges. “It’s been 18 months now where I’ve been playing well for the club consistently. I had a tough season when Ralph (Rangnick) took over, and I wasn’t at my best. But I knew I had to find something to get back to my best and to stay at this club. United demands high standards, and I’m pleased to say I’ve found that again,” he explained.
Difficult Period
When asked about the tough moments that led to his slump in form, Maguire acknowledged that there were personal and professional struggles. “It was a difficult period,” he admitted. “But the key is how you bounce back, and I’ve worked hard mentally and physically to return to the level required at a club like Manchester United. The fans expect a lot, and the club demands the best, and I feel like I’m delivering that again.”
As United continues to fight for both domestic and European glory, Maguire’s role as a leader in the defense is becoming increasingly important. His calmness on the ball, defensive solidity, and experience in high-pressure situations are qualities that will be crucial in the months ahead.
With a demanding fixture list ahead, Maguire and United must maintain their current momentum. There is no room for complacency, and the team knows they must improve to meet the high expectations set by their storied history. As Maguire said, “We’ve got to kick on from here. The job isn’t finished yet.”
While much of the focus will remain on United’s overall performance, the personal growth of players like Maguire cannot be overlooked. His resilience through difficult periods shows the mental strength required to play for a club of United’s stature. With the new year well underway, the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead will define both Maguire’s individual journey and Manchester United’s season as a whole.
