Harry Maguire opens up on Man United scrutiny and his World Cup hopes

FootballSports
9 Apr 2026 • 8:16 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Harry Maguire has spoken candidly about the immense pressure at Manchester United, suggesting the scrutiny would have “broken” many other players.
  • He reflected on his journey from being an £80m signing and captaining the side to losing his place, before a recent resurgence under Michael Carrick which led to him signing a new contract earlier this week.
  • Maguire believes Manchester United can reclaim their position at the pinnacle of English football and challenge for major trophies with the right recruitment.
  • He also expressed his “desperate” desire to be part of England's World Cup squad this summer, anticipating it would be his final tournament.
  • Despite Thomas Tuchel suggesting Maguire is some way down the defensive pecking order, the United centre-back maintains confidence in his ability, stating he is “arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes”.

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