Harry Maguire Credits Ruben Amorim for Career Revival as Manchester United Edge Arsenal in FA Cup
Harry Maguire has hailed Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim for revitalizing his confidence and reigniting his form, as the Red Devils advanced past Arsenal in a dramatic FA Cup tie. The center-back played a pivotal role in United’s penalty shootout victory over the Gunners, cementing his return to form under Amorim’s stewardship.
Amorim’s Vote of Confidence
Amorim’s faith in Maguire was evident when he insisted that extending the defender’s contract until 2026 was a “no-brainer.” The Portuguese tactician’s backing has rejuvenated the England international, who has faced criticism and struggled for consistency over the past few seasons.
“Ruben said to me that when it came across to him that I had an option [to extend my contract], he said it was a no-brainer for him,” Maguire revealed after the Arsenal clash. “It’s given me confidence and belief that they want me at the club and part of this project.”
Amorim’s trust has helped Maguire rediscover his confidence, allowing him to focus on delivering high-level performances. “He’s really demanding, and I’m happy to be here,” Maguire added. “I want this club to be back fighting for titles and not where we are in the table right now. We’ve got a long way to go.”
From Criticism to Redemption
Maguire, who endured a tough spell under former managers Ralf Rangnick and Erik ten Hag, acknowledged that his third season at the club was one of the most challenging in his career. However, he believes that his current form reflects a return to the standards he set during his initial years at Old Trafford.
“I think my first couple of years at United were probably the best part of my career. I’m 31 now, coming up to 32 in a couple of months, but I’m getting back to that level,” he said. “There’s no doubt I had a tough year in my third season, but I feel like I’ve found something. Mentally and physically, I feel good.”
Defining Moments Against Arsenal
Maguire’s leadership and composure were on full display during United’s FA Cup triumph over Arsenal. Despite training only twice due to illness, the defender delivered a commanding performance, including crucial interventions that kept Arsenal at bay during the match.
The dramatic tie saw United hold their nerve in a penalty shootout after a pulsating 120 minutes of football. Maguire’s presence in the backline provided stability during a high-pressure encounter, further demonstrating his resurgence under Amorim.
Eyeing Consistency in the Premier League
While the FA Cup victory offered a glimpse of the team’s potential, Maguire admitted that their Premier League position remains unacceptable. United are currently languishing in 13th place, and the defender emphasized the importance of consistency moving forward.
“Our consistency this year has been really, really poor,” Maguire acknowledged. “We can produce moments—like we did in the FA Cup final last year—but over a long period, our consistency’s been bad. It’s something that we do need to nail down, starting with the next game.”
The defender believes the squad has the quality to climb the table but emphasized the need to focus on performance rather than results alone. “You don’t really look after results. You’ve got to look after performances,” he said. “If the performances are high over a period of time, the results will come.”
Amorim’s Transformational Impact
Since taking over as Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim has been credited with fostering a positive environment and instilling belief in the squad. His emphasis on discipline, tactical clarity, and player development has started to pay dividends, with Maguire’s resurgence being a prime example.
“Ruben has brought in a fresh approach,” Maguire said. “He’s demanding, but he also gives us the confidence to express ourselves on the pitch. I think that balance has been crucial for me personally and for the team as a whole.”
A United Front
Maguire’s reflections highlight the collective responsibility within the squad to improve their fortunes. The defender praised the experienced players in the team for maintaining belief and called on everyone to contribute to United’s revival.
“We’ve got good experienced players who’ve had good careers,” Maguire said. “We all have belief that we should be a lot higher in the table. We know that. To be sat where we are in the Premier League, it’s nowhere near good enough for this squad.”
The defender also stressed the importance of unity and focus as they navigate the challenges ahead. “It’s down to us to change it. We’ve got to go on a little run. If the performances are high over a period of time, the results will come, and that’s what we’ve got to maintain.”
The Road Ahead
With the FA Cup providing a glimmer of hope, Manchester United and Harry Maguire will aim to build on their recent performances. Under Amorim’s guidance, the Red Devils are gradually finding their rhythm, and Maguire’s revival serves as a testament to the transformative impact of strong leadership and unwavering belief.
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