Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has decided to strip Harry Maguire of the captaincy. Maguire himself announced this via his Instagram account, confirming that he will no longer be leading the team. As the new season approaches, Bruno Fernandes is poised to take on the role of Manchester United's main captain.
Harry Maguire via his Instagram "After discussions with the manager today he has informed me he is changing captain. He outlined his reasons to me and whilst I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt. So I wanted to say a massive thank you to the Manchester United fans for all their brilliant support whilst I’ve been wearing the armband."
Last season, Maguire's on-field presence was limited, featuring in only eight Premier League games, with his last appearance coming on the final day after the team secured qualification for the Champions League. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes took on the responsibility of captaincy for the majority of matches and is now likely to be officially appointed as Maguire's successor.
With aspirations to maintain his place with the English national team, Maguire has expressed his openness to leaving Manchester United. However, a recent salary increase that he received due to the team's qualification for the Champions League has complicated the process of finding a potential buyer. Maguire was rewarded with a significant wage rise, aligning with the rest of the squad.
Harry Maguire, has been made to be a scapegoat for the team's lackluster performances during his time as captai. Frequently stepping into a squad facing constant changes and instability, Maguire struggled to settle in comfortably. Nevertheless, his performances for the English national team have showcased his potential, With Erik ten Hag making it clear he wants to add another centre back in to the squad it's clear to see that Ten Hag doesn't see Maguire fit in to his plans for the future.
As Maguire steps down from the captaincy, all eyes are on Bruno Fernandes, the dynamic midfielder who has been an instrumental figure for Manchester United since his arrival. His on-field leadership, exceptional skills, and passion for the game make him a strong candidate to take on the mantle of captaincy. United fans are hopeful that under Fernandes' leadership, the team will experience a renewed sense of determination and unity.
It remains to be seen how Maguire's future unfolds in the transfer market, given the complications arising from his recent salary increase.
Harry Maguire also expressed gratitude to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the manager who brought him from Leicester City and made him the captain "I will always be thankful to Ole for giving me this responsibility, and I wish the next captain every success; they will have my complete support," Maguire stated.
This change in Manchester United's captaincy marks a significant moment for the team. Manchester United, will look forward to a new era under Bruno Fernandes' captaincy, with expectations of a fresh start and an improved performance in the upcoming season.