“WHEN I PLAY, I WANT US TO WIN. WHEN I DON’T PLAY, I WANT US TO WIN. I’LL BE AN ENGLAND FAN FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE”
There has been much debate about Harry Maguire’s place in the national team, but no one doubts his desire. After travelling Europe to cheer on his nation, his first two tournaments changed his life, via internet memes and a Vardy prank
Interview Andy Mitten
When Harry Maguire felled Jamal Musiala to give Germany a penalty in England’s final game before the World Cup, he knew what was coming. After an ascent that saw the centre-back capture the hearts of a nation – becoming an English cult hero at the 2018 World Cup, then earning a place in UEFA’s Team of the Tournament at Euro 2020 – things have been altogether rockier for him in recent times.
After he was dropped by Erik ten Hag at Manchester United in August, following a lengthy period of criticism for his club performances, debate raged as to whether Maguire should be dropped by England, too. When Germany were awarded their penalty, more negative headlines were inevitable. He has had to somehow try to shrug it all off. “I’m not concentrating on what people are saying,” he insisted. “I don’t really read it.”
Through it all, Gareth Southgate has stood by a man who did so much to help England to reach a World Cup semi-final and their first major final in 55 years. Sidelined by the Red Devils, Maguire remained a first-choice defender for the Three Lions in September.
Southgate’s loyalty is due in no small part to Maguire’s attitude and desire. This is still a down-to-earth, slightly bruised human being who is desperate to succeed for his country. That much is clear as Maguire talks to FFT: hurt by recent events, he prefers not to discuss his difficult year, trying instead to retain the positive mindset he will need for the World Cup by reflecting on the rise that got him to this position in the first place.
At 29, Maguire still dreams of another tournament like the last two. Whatever happens, he won’t take for granted the experiences he has had in an England shirt.
The first time you were called up for England, in 2017, you famously turned up with your belongings in a bin bag. Why?
I’d come from Leicester, where the limelight wasn’t as big. I wasn’t used to what I know now – that when you play for Manchester United and England, you are analysed every time you do something. I got called up for England and asked Jamie Vardy what you were supposed to turn up in. He told me to take my boots in a black bin bag, so I did. I still don’t know if he was having me on. It was a good one if he was…
And it wa
