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Maguire reflects on career lows and new contract
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has opened up about the personal and professional challenges that nearly derailed his career, revealing how his mother's public defense and his own mental toughness helped him secure a new deal at Old Trafford.
Family support during darkest moments
Speaking to journalists during United's recent training camp in Maynooth, Ireland, the 33-year-old recounted his lowest point: an England appearance against Scotland in September 2023, where he was jeered by fans after scoring an own goal. Maguire admitted the backlash took a heavier toll on his family than on himself.
"I didn't want her to, but she just said, 'I'm doing it! I'm not listening to you!'"
Harry Maguire, recalling his mother Zoe's decision to defend him on social media
Zoe Maguire called the treatment of her son "disgraceful and unacceptable," a move he now acknowledges was necessary. "I think it probably does affect your family a little bit more in those moments," he said. "They've seen what we're going through and how tough it is."
From captaincy loss to contract renewal
The defender's struggles extended beyond the pitch. In 2023, then-manager Erik ten Hag stripped him of the captaincy, and the club explored selling him to West Ham. Maguire described his initial reaction as "anger and disappointment" but framed the setback as part of a broader journey.
"Unless you're one of the superstars, you have ups and downs," he said. "Wayne Rooney and David Beckham went through it too. I just kept my head down and believed in my ability."
His form improved after losing the armband, though he insisted his performance would have rebounded regardless. When asked if most players would have walked away, he replied: "Probably. A lot would close the book and restart elsewhere. It got to a point where the mocking and abuse-if you want to call it that-there was only one way it could go."
United's faith and future ambitions
Maguire's resilience paid off. Last month, he signed a new contract, extending his stay at United for an eighth-and potentially ninth-season. The club's decision to retain him, alongside the departure of veteran Casemiro, underscored his value as a leader and experienced defender.
"It's a huge honor to play for this club," Maguire said. "To be here for eight years is a testament to myself."
With United currently third in the Premier League and chasing a Champions League return, Maguire emphasized the need for squad reinforcement. "This summer's going to be big," he said. "We need more players, better quality, and depth. We've played 40 games this season-we definitely need a bigger squad."
England return and World Cup hopes
Maguire's resurgence has also revived his international career. After an 18-month absence, he returned to the England squad last month for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. His selection drew praise, even after Bayern Munich's Thomas Tuchel controversially ranked him as his fifth-choice center-back.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Maguire said: "I think it would be my last. I missed the Euros two years ago through injury, which hurt. I'm desperate to go, in whatever role the manager wants."
With a suspension sidelining him for the upcoming match against Leeds, Maguire remains focused on helping United secure a top-four finish. "Football is about memories," he said. "You get those from winning big trophies."
