The "Red Devils" finished eighth in the Premier League after being knocked out in the group stage of the Champions League. Nevertheless, they could still end the 2023/24 season celebrating.
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Manchester United had a season well below expectations – finishing eighth in the Premier League and being eliminated in the group stage of the Champions League – and Harry Maguire acknowledged the failure in a conversation with "The Sun."
"It was a disappointing season. Everyone knows that. As a team, this season was much tougher than last year. If you don't get good results, the players are scrutinized, linked to possible transfers. Then they are sold, put on the transfer list, and the coach ends up under pressure," said the English international center-back, who was signed from Leicester in the summer of 2019 for 87 million euros.
Despite the disappointing results, the 31-year-old defender believes it is still possible to turn the situation around. "Erik ten Hag has enough experience to know that he is an important part of the club. I am confident that he can handle this," he concluded. Maguire emphasized that the challenges faced this season could serve as a learning experience and a catalyst for improvement in the upcoming campaigns. He highlighted the need for collective effort and resilience to navigate through difficult times.
It should be noted that this Saturday, Manchester United could end the season with a title: the FA Cup. To achieve this, they will have to beat their rival, Manchester City, who have just been crowned English champions for the fourth time, at Wembley in London. The FA Cup final presents a significant opportunity for United to salvage their season and provide a morale boost for the players and fans alike.
Winning the FA Cup would not only add silverware to United's cabinet but also demonstrate the potential and capability of the squad under Erik ten Hag's leadership. The match against Manchester City, a formidable opponent, will be a true test of United's resolve and ability to perform under pressure. A victory in this high-stakes encounter could lay the groundwork for a more successful and stable future, reinforcing the belief in the team's direction and the coach's strategies.
