Harry Maguire issues 'no excuses' warning to Man Utd team-mates after getting a 'lot better' acquainted with Ruben Amorim's system during 'tough' pre-season

For the first time in years, United will be completely absent from European football after their painful Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao back in May. Without continental competition on the calendar, their fixture count could drop significantly. Should they exit early from the League Cup or FA Cup, the team could even end up playing only 40 matches over the course of the campaign.

The reduced workload puts an even greater emphasis on excelling in the Premier League, which now becomes the club’s undisputed priority. United’s top brass have made it clear that a return to European football by the 2026-27 season is non-negotiable. For that, the team must perform well domestically to earn a place among the continent’s elite.

Maguire, who has featured sparingly in pre-season preparations, starting just one of the club’s opening four summer friendlies, is fully aware of the significance of this season. Speaking to MUTV, the centre-back emphasised the need for accountability and unity as the club seeks redemption.

"I just want to be part of a successful team this season," Maguire said. "I think last season was a tough season for everyone individually, but also as a team, as a squad, as a club. This season, there are no excuses. We're going to have a lot of time to prepare for the Premier League games, and we've got to make sure we're ready. So, for myself, it's making sure I'm available, I'm fit, I'm ready to go, and give everything I can to this team and this club."

United have had a gruelling pre-season under Amorim, and Maguire believes that the Portuguese manager has built a strong tactical foundation for the upcoming season.

"It's something that [Ruben Amorim] reiterated, that we didn't have enough time on the training pitch," Maguire continued. "This pre-season, it's been tough on the legs, but the majority of it has been tactical. So, it's nice to do the drills that are tactical rather than running around poles and running around the pitch.

"It's been an enjoyable pre-season, but a pre-season that we've all learnt from. We know the system a lot better, and we've just got to take that into the games now."

United’s summer tune-up concludes this Saturday, with Serie A side Fiorentina visiting Old Trafford for a lunchtime friendly. The fixture will serve as the final opportunity for players to impress before the competitive action kicks off. The Red Devils will open their Premier League campaign with a blockbuster clash against Arsenal on August 17.