Harry Maguire targets England World Cup squad after Manchester United revival
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has declared his desperation to secure a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this summer’s World Cup following a timely resurgence in his club form.
The 33-year-old earned his first international call-up in 18 months this March, featuring in recent friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.
That return marked a significant turnaround for the centre-back, who had made just seven national team appearances since scoring an own goal against Scotland in September 2023.
Facing fierce defensive competition
Despite his improved performances at Old Trafford, the Yorkshireman faces a difficult challenge to cement his place on the plane.
Tuchel recently admitted that the veteran remains behind established options such as John Stones, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, and the injured Trevoh Chalobah in the current pecking order.
However, the former Leicester City captain remains defiant about his unique abilities and the value he can offer the national side.
“I still believe, even at my age, I’m arguably one of the best defenders in the world in both boxes.” – Harry Maguire
He insisted that his aerial dominance remains highly effective late in matches, whether holding onto a narrow lead or chasing a crucial goal.
A proven tournament pedigree
Missing the previous European Championship through injury has only amplified his desire to compete at what he expects to be his final global tournament.
“Of course, I’m desperate to go. I think it would be my last World Cup for my country.” – Harry Maguire
The experienced international boasts a formidable record at major championships, having been named in the Team of the Tournament at Euro 2020.
He also scored a vital quarter-final header against Sweden in 2018 and earned widespread praise for his resilient displays in Qatar four years later.
“If you look through my career in the finals that I’ve played and the big games that I’ve been to, the bigger the games are, it seems like the better I do.” – Harry Maguire
