Harry Maguire Stripped of Manchester United Captaincy by Erik ten Hag
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been stripped of the captaincy by manager Erik ten Hag. This decision comes after Maguire lost his place in the team during Ten Hag’s first season in charge at Old Trafford. The 30-year-old only started eight games in the Premier League last season, with Ten Hag preferring Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as his center-back pairing.
Maguire expressed his disappointment with the decision, stating, “After discussions with the manager today, he has informed me he is changing captain. He outlined his reasons to me, and while I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt.” Maguire had been the captain of Manchester United for three and a half years and considered it a privilege to lead the team.
Bruno Fernandes, who captained United on several occasions in Maguire’s absence last season, is the favorite to take over the captaincy permanently. Maguire thanked the Manchester United fans for their support during his time as captain and expressed gratitude to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for giving him the responsibility initially.
This decision has fueled speculation about Maguire’s future at Manchester United. The defender has been heavily linked with a move away from the club, with West Ham among the clubs interested in signing him. It is reported that United would be willing to sell Maguire for a fee of £40 million. Additionally, England manager Gareth Southgate has warned Maguire that his role in the national side may be at risk if he continues to struggle for playing time at United ahead of next summer’s European Championship.
Maguire’s removal as captain raises questions about his long-term future at the club. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact his playing time and whether he will seek a transfer to secure regular first-team football. With several clubs interested in his services, Maguire may have options if he decides to leave Manchester United.
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In conclusion, Harry Maguire’s removal as Manchester United captain by Erik ten Hag has come as a surprise to many. The decision reflects Maguire’s limited playing time last season and raises doubts about his future at the club. As the transfer window heats up, it will be interesting to see if Maguire decides to seek a move away from Manchester United in search of regular first-team football.