Harry Maguire has revealed he is no longer Manchester United captain after an intense talk with manager Erik ten Hag.
Maguire had inherited the captaincy following Ashley Young’s move to Inter Milan in January 2020, just six months after moving from Leicester City to Old Trafford as the world’s most expensive defender. Bruno Fernandes is the favorite to succeed him. He wore the captain’s armband for most of last season while Maguire was on the bench
Maguire was a fixture in the Red Devils’ central defense until ten Hag took office last summer. However, Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez moved ahead of Maguire in the pecking order in 2023/24. Ten Hag has now told Maguire he will change captains ahead of the new season, leaving the defender ‘extremely disappointed’.
The England international wrote on his social networks: “After discussions with the manager, he informed me today that he is changing the captaincy. He has explained his reasons to me and although I am personally very disappointed, I will continue to give my best every time I wear the jersey. “I would like to thank the Manchester United fans for the amazing support while I’ve worn the captain’s armband. It’s been a huge privilege to lead Manchester United since the day I took over three and a half years ago. It is one of the greatest honors in club football. I did everything I could to help United succeed – on and off the pitch. I will always be grateful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for putting the responsibility in my hands and I wish him the best , who is taking over now, good luck and assure you of my full support. Harry.”
United added in an official statement: “Everyone at Manchester United thanks Harry for his contribution as captain over the past three and a half years. The manager will announce the new captain in due course after updating the players.”
There is now speculation about a farewell to Maguire. West Ham and Aston Villa are said to be interested in the experienced centre-back. Maguire missed United’s first pre-season game against Leeds last week after being granted an extra time-out to recover from his appearances with England in June. He could be available again in a friendly against Lyon on July 19. Three days later, United embarked on a trip to the United States.
