Man Utd announce new captain after Harry Maguire stripped of the armband by Erik ten Hag

Manchester United have confirmed Bruno Fernandes is the club’s new captain, following the decision last week to take the armband from Harry Maguire.

Fernandes was expected to take over after he regularly captained the side last season, with the Portugal international named as skipper for around two thirds of the team’s games in 2022/23. Fernandes also jointly lifted the Carabao Cup with Maguire after the Red Devils beat Newcastle at Wembley in February.

In a brief statement on Wednesday, United said: “Bruno Fernandes has been named as the new club captain of Manchester United.

“The Portuguese midfielder has already worn the armband for United on numerous occasions and Erik ten Hag has confirmed that he will now lead the team on a permanent basis.

“Fernandes has scored 64 goals and contributed 54 assists in just 185 games for the club since joining in 2020. As captain, the two-time Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year will continue to drive the highest standards throughout the squad as United push for success in the 2023/24 season and beyond.”

It’s understood Fernandes’ leadership qualities on and off the field encouraging Ten Hag to hand him the armband on a permanent basis, with the 28-year-old’s knowledge of the game and communication skills also seen as important.

United also believe they have a number of other experienced players in the dressing room, with Raphael Varane captaining the side in the two friendly matches against Leeds United and Lyon. Fernandes should lead the side out when the Red Devils meet Arsenal in New Jersey on Saturday, while his first competitive game as permanent captain will come when Wolverhampton Wanderers travel to Old Trafford on 14 August.

As for Maguire, United are willing to let the centre-back leave this summer. West Ham United are interested in the ex-Leicester City man, while Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have been linked with a move.