Manchester United (Man United) defender Harry Maguire (33) revealed the story of crying with his mother as he shared the news of his return to the England national team.
Maguire was recently called up to the England squad for the first time under manager Thomas Tuchel. It is his first return in about 18 months since the UEFA Nations League match against Ireland in September 2024.
England has recorded a perfect eight wins in eight World Cup qualifying matches (no goals conceded) under Tuchel and is considered one of the strong favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Maguire candidly shared his feelings ahead of the friendly A match against Uruguay at Wembley Stadium in London on the 28th at 4:45 a.m. Korea time.
According to Britain's The Sun on the 26th, he said at a press conference in response to the question, 'Did you think your international career was over?' That there was a time like that. It was probably toward the end of last season, when I wasn't selected for the summer camp.
He added, "I feel I should be included in the squad, and it's a bit more painful if I'm not," and "but during the last three A match camps I was injured. So I couldn't play every game for Man United either."
He also said, "If I hadn't been included in this squad announcement, I probably wouldn't have returned. It's truly amazing. I missed it so much," and explained, "After being a regular starter for six to seven years, it's hard when you're not picked. I spoke with the manager and he told me I was included in the squad."
He said, "I called my family. My mother was on holiday and she cried," and pledged, "I'm not only in this position for myself in my career now. I'm 33. Whether I play one minute in the World Cup or every game, I will do everything I can so this country can succeed."
Maguire recalled the time he suddenly drifted away from the national team and confessed, "I don't want to take it for granted, but if that (national team eligibility) is suddenly taken away, it hurts."
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