Man Utd are currently without a captain after Harry Maguire revealed Erik ten Hag had his armband removed ahead of the 2023-24 season
Erik ten Hag is looking for a new Manchester United captain after sacking Harry Maguire from the position.
The centre-back has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford since the Dutchman’s arrival and was handed a guard duty for much of the 2022/23 season. Bruno Fernandes was the de facto captain in Maguire’s absence and the Portuguese ace is expected to receive the armband permanently this summer.
MEN Sport revealed shortly after Maguire’s announcement that the new captain would not be known until the team embarked on their US tour.
United travel to Edinburgh on Wednesday to face Lyon before flying to the United States. All eyes will no doubt be on who will be named captain in Scotland on Wednesday as fans look for clues as to who can take over the role permanently, although there is a good chance several players could pass the wing during the 90 minutes and ten Hag should turn to his side.
We have been reviewing candidates for the role as Ten Hag prepares to name its new skipper.
Casemiro
The Brazilian may only have one more year at Old Trafford but the impact of him is incredible.
Anyone with five Champions League medals to his name will command respect, but even without his impressive medal win, Casemiro would be an obvious candidate for the role. His no-nonsense attitude made him an instant fan favorite at Old Trafford and you couldn’t ask for more if you’re looking for a player who can lead by example.
Bruno Fernando
The fact that Fernandes is wearing the armband in this photo means it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Portuguese international become United captain.
Fernandes captained United for much of last season during Maguire’s absence, although his leadership credentials were called into question after both he and United imploded at Anfield in March. However, he is the clear favorite to land the part.
Raphael Varane
If you are looking for a leader who oozes class, Raphael Varane should be in the fray.
The Frenchman wore the armband in Norway last week and although he shared the pitch with many youngsters, there were also some senior pros alongside him. He’s clearly on Ten Hag’s mind when it comes to selecting a captain, even if his injury record is an obvious issue.
Lisandro Martínez
Who would have thought when Ten Hag was criticized for signing Martinez that 12 months later we would be talking about him as a potential team captain?
Like Casemiro, Martinez’s drive and passion have been a big part of the breakthrough under Ten Hag and he should certainly be in the picture when it comes to selecting a captain.