Harry Maguire has expressed his dissatisfaction with Manchester United's dismal form, claiming that they have a better set of players this season than they did last season, when they finished second in the Premier League.
Maguire, 28, is expected to play in United's FA Cup third-round clash against Aston Villa on Sunday, with interim manager Ralf Rangnick already under fire after a loss to Wolves that dropped them to eighth in the league, 22 points behind league leaders Manchester City.
After adding Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho, and Raphael Varane in the summer, United were considered title contenders, with Daniel James being the only senior player to leave permanently with Andreas Pereira and Brandon Williams heading out on loan.
'We've let the fans down and have to come out battling,' United captain Wayne Rooney admitted. 'Last year, this team came in second. This year, we have a bigger and better group, so we need to play with the appropriate approach. We have a lot of big players and leaders on our team. I'm tired of repeating myself, but I can't keep doing it. Starting Monday, we need to go for a proper run.
'I've clearly seen a lot of criticism, and a lot of it is really justified. We get it, based on what fans and ex-players have said. Much of it is justified, and we all bear significant responsibility, including myself, as captain, as much as anyone else, if not more. We need to start winning games and playing as a unit.'
Maguire stated that he has had private discussions with his teammates and management in an attempt to improve the issue. Several members of the squad, notably Anthony Martial, Jesse Lingard, and Donny van de Beek, have been linked with a move due to a lack of first-team opportunities.
Marcus Rashford and Fred have stated that they are pleased with the club, with Rashford stating that his allegiance should 'never be called into doubt.' Rashford took to social media to publicly express that he does not want his name associated with a rebellion.
Rangnick took over from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in November, but despite a more favorable schedule, he has been unable to shift the attitude at Old Trafford.
When he replaced Mason Greenwood in Monday's 1-0 loss to Wolves, he was booed.
'The manager has had an effect,' Maguire remarked. 'He's there to set us up tactically, which we accept wholeheartedly.' We pay attention to him and his team, and once the game begins, it's up to us.
'His attention to detail and preparation is incredible. We have complete faith and respect for his techniques. It's challenging when the coaching staff changes in the middle of the season, as it does at many clubs.
'I'll say it again: it's up to us as individuals.' The club has the talent and leaders to finish the season in the top four and with a trophy.'
Maguire has been chastised for his performances this season, and admits it was 'frustrating' to watch the Wolves game from the bench, despite Phil Jones' stunning comeback after nearly two years out.
United performs better when their captain is on the field. Maguire has a victory rate of 53% (47 out of 88) in the Premier League, and they have only won one of the seven games he has missed since joining from Leicester in 2019.
Maguire has yet to win his first trophy. He stated, "I came here to win trophies." 'I could have signed with another club, but I wanted to stay at United and help them get back on track.' If we all stick together, it will happen.
'I grew up idolizing Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand, and Nemanja Vidic, and I want to attain the same success they did. I am honored to be captain, and I am charged with leading the players and turning things around.'
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