Exclusive: Harry Maguire reveals bold strategy to secure starting position and dominate at Manchester United

Harry Maguire acknowledges that he and Manchester United should have a discussion regarding his limited playing opportunities, as he is currently only featuring in matches once a month. The centre-back from England is worried about his decreased game time and the fact that he has dropped down in the team hierarchy, resulting in him losing the captaincy.

Maguire, aged 30, was rumored to be transferring to West Ham in the summer. Despite this not happening, he is committed to reclaiming his spot under Erik ten Hag. However, looking ahead to Euro 2024, Maguire acknowledged that his limited chances could become problematic in the near future.

"Yes, definitely," he affirmed before England's upcoming matches against Australia and Italy. "I don't intend to stay here and play only once a month forever. If this trend continues, I anticipate discussing the situation with both myself and the club.

"However, right now, my complete attention is on these two significant games for England."

'I'm not playing anywhere near enough'

Gareth Southgate has consistently backed Maguire despite his highs and lows, but he has acknowledged apprehension about his participation, a concern that Maguire is committed to address.

"I have full confidence in my skills and accomplishments throughout my career, as every player should," stated Maguire.

"Every player sitting on the bench ought to believe that they deserve to be on the starting lineup; otherwise, they wouldn't be competing at such a high level. I am no exception."

Image:

Man Utd defender Harry Maguire has struggled for minutes

"Listen, it's been tough. I want to play games. I want to feel important to the club and I want to feel important to the rest of the team.

"At the moment I haven't been playing anywhere near as much as I'd like. It's the bottom line of it.

"I've just got to make sure I am ready to take the opportunities when they come along."

Maguire happy with performances

Despite his struggles to secure a spot in Ten Hag's line-up, Maguire has managed to maintain his place in the England team. He recently made his first Premier League start of the season in the thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Brentford.

"I don't have the authority to determine whether I'll start the next game or not," stated the defender, who played his part in Scott McTominay's winning goal. "I'm uncertain about that. However, I am confident that within a few weeks, I'll receive the information."

"If you reflect on my recent 15 to 20 starts for both my club and country, I would gladly express my satisfaction with my performances. The proof of my capabilities under this particular manager is undeniable. Although I haven't had the opportunity to start as many games as I desire, the rate of victories in matches where I have played is remarkably exceptional."

And naturally, there are occasions when I am capable of doing more and moments when I can enhance and support the team. However, my primary goal is to assist the team.

My primary objective is to aid the team in escaping our current situation, and hopefully, we can accomplish that in the upcoming weeks.

'I believe in myself'

Maguire benefitted from a string of defensive absentees as he made just his ninth Premier League start since Ten Hag arrived.

Maguire stated that he will continue to deliver commendable performances whenever he gets the opportunity to be in the team.

This season, I have taken part in two games as a starter and made a few appearances as a substitute. Nevertheless, I am determined to continue putting in the effort during training.

The manager can assess my performance both in training sessions and the games in which I have the chance to participate, shaping his decision based on these observations.

Maguire: West Ham move was never agreed

Maguire on a potential move to West Ham: "There was no mutual agreement between both clubs and myself regarding the possibility of joining West Ham, so it wasn't a simple decision for me to say yes and make the move."

We didn't progress far enough to seize the actual opportunity.

While West Ham is an impressive club, my main priority remains Manchester United. I am determined to compete for my position, yet playing time holds great significance to me.