“I Can’t Help but Laugh”: Michael Maguire Shrugs Off Criticism During Broncos’ Winning Streak

Two-time NRL premiership-winning coach Michael Maguire has taken to dismissing any criticism of his training techniques with a sense of humour.

The 52-year-old boasts an impressive track record in the modern era, securing NRL championships with the Rabbitohs (2014) and the Broncos (2025), alongside a Pacific Championship with the New Zealand national team and a State of Origin series with the NSW Blues.

Yet, despite his substantial achievements, he faces ongoing scrutiny regarding his methods, with some claiming they leave players feeling drained.

This past season, he faced significant backlash following the Broncos’ defeat in the World Club Challenge and their losses in the first two matches of the NRL season.

Maguire was also held accountable for the departure of star prop Payne Haas, who has opted to join South Sydney next year.

“Honestly, I find it amusing,” he remarked on Nine’s 100% Footy on Monday night.

“Every team currently excelling talks about their rigorous training sessions, so I don’t understand why that’s seen as different to what we are doing. Honestly, I find it funny.

“What really matters is that my group of players and leaders genuinely enjoy our approach. When that camaraderie exists internally, external opinions lose significance.

“I value our fans, and they recognise the efforts of our players, which is what truly counts.

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“The external chatter is just part of the territory for me after so many years in this role.

“Isn’t it remarkable? But that’s our game – it’s what makes it so unique and, at times, a bit mad. However, I am fortunate to work with a resilient group, and I truly enjoy coaching them.”

Maguire led Brisbane to their first NRL premiership since 2006 last year, during just his inaugural season as head coach of the Broncos.

Nevertheless, he’s had to navigate ongoing criticism, primarily from Broncos legend Gorden Tallis, who remains disgruntled about Maguire’s selection over his close friend Kevin Walters for the role.

Having been a head coach for more than a decade, Maguire has grown accustomed to criticism.

“Coaching is quite the journey,” Maguire commented.

“What I cherish most is the squad I work with, as well as our training sessions, which reveal the genuine dynamics at play. I suppose the opinions from the outside will always be there.

“What I get to witness daily during training is how committed the players are. I was always confident that they would push through any challenges; it was simply a matter of hunkering down and doing the work, and now we are starting to see the benefits.”

The Broncos are currently on a winning streak with three straight victories, and next up they will face the Cowboys in a Friday night Queensland derby.