Mueez Ajao
– Harry Maguire says he is ready to put a “disappointing” year for himself and Manchester United behind him after opening up on what is changing under Erik ten Hag.
– Maguire was a subject of scrutiny last season when Manchester United endured one of their worst seasons in recent memory. They could only finish sixth in the Premier League, enabling qualification to the Europa League but nothing more.
– Their trophy drought continued despite the return of Cristiano Ronaldo and some other big signings, such as Raphael Varane and Jadon Sancho. In Maguire’s department of defence, they conceded more goals than relegated Burnley, for example.
Also Read: Man Utd make it two wins from two in pre-season
– In turn, captain Maguire came into sharp focus for his disappointing displays. Now, he has reflected on the troubles he encountered over those 37 appearances in all competitions.
– “Listen, last year was disappointing,” Maguire said at a fan event in Melbourne, via the PA news agency. “As an individual I didn’t play well and as team we certainly didn’t play well.
– “But a good career can last 10 to 15 years and you’re never going to have every year where it’s plain sailing and you don’t have any difficulties.
– “You’re going to have to fight, you’re going to have setbacks and last year was certainly a setback for myself on my career path.
– “But it’s behind us now and we look forward to the future and getting this club back to winning trophies, which is what it’s all about.”
– The 29-year-old has since been assured of his role as captain by new manager Ten Hag. He will be hoping to help lead Manchester United into a better era.
– Shedding light on how demanding pre-season has been under the former Ajax coach, Maguire sent a rallying cry for how the club are ready to raise their standards.
– “It’s been tough,” Maguire said. “The running has been hard but we’re really looking forward to the season.
– “Everyone – the players, the club – know last year was nowhere near good enough. But it’s a fresh start and we’ve got a big season ahead.
– “Erik and his coaching staff are bringing their ideas and the first two games you’ve seen little glimpses of the principals.
– “We’re working towards being ready for that first Premier League game, that’s what matters. Everything we’re doing now is building for that first game.”
– So far in pre-season, United have beaten Liverpool 4-0 and Melbourne Victory 4-1. Their remaining fixtures will be against Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano
– Brighton will be the first visitors to Old Trafford when the Premier League season gets underway in August.
