Harry Maguire reflects on ‘amazing’ Man United comeback following tough period | OneFootball

Harry Maguire says it feels “amazing” to be playing regularly for Man United again after going through the toughest period of his career.

The central defender’s problems began in 2021/22 when he experienced a loss of form and  received intense criticism and scrutiny for his performance levels.

Maguire saw his playing time curtailed by injuries the following season and didn’t start the League Cup final win over Newcastle United.

The 32-year-old’s time at Old Trafford appeared to be coming to an end after he was stripped of the captaincy by Erik ten Hag ahead of the 2023/24 campaign and then dropped from the starting lineup.

However, Maguire fought his way back into the team after turning down the chance leave Man United. He once again became an integral part of the setup, which continued when Ruben Amorim arrived and played with a back three.

The former Leicester City player has played an integral role in the club’s run to the Europa League final, scoring a dramatic winner at the end of a thrilling comeback against Lyon in the quarter-finals before showing off his skills against Athletic Club in the last four.

Although it’s been a very difficult season on and off the pitch for United, on Wednesday they will have the chance to end the campaign with a trophy when they face Spurs in Bilbao, with Maguire marshalling the backline.

Harry Maguire reflects on ‘amazing’ Man United comeback

“It’s amazing to be back in the team and playing regularly. This season I have played a lot of football,” the England international said during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference.

“I don’t take too much notice of the plaudits from the media and things like that. When you play for this club you can be an amazing player and the following week you can be the villain. That’s part and parcel of playing for this club.

“I don’t read too much into it. I try and stay as level as I can. Every game I go into it and try my best, and that’s all you can do.”

Man United could finish the season as low as 17th in the Premier League table having lost 18 of their 37 matches, the most defeats they have suffered in a single campaign since 1973/74.

Read – Man Utd move for Emi Martinez as Andre Onana attracts Saudi interest

“Of course it is a frustration,” Maguire said. “When you play for this club you want to win every football match and this season we have been far too inconsistent.

“We haven’t won enough, in the Premier League it’s not been good enough. Europa League has been different, we have performed at a high level and we have proven that we can beat anybody.

“I am sure next season we will improve an awful amount, after a full pre-season [with Amorim]. As players we are all looking forward to that but we have got a big game tomorrow night, and that’s first and foremost.

“It’s a special night, a special occasion – we have prepared well the last few days and it’s one that we are looking forward to.”

Read – Amorim confirms return of Man United trio for Europa League final

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