Harry Maguire’s tenure as Manchester United captain is set to come to an end, as Bruno Fernandes is expected to take over the leadership role, News About Nigeria reports.
On Sunday, media reported that Maguire could be stripped of the captaincy in the upcoming week, irrespective of whether he remains at Old Trafford or not.
Fernandes, who filled in for the 30-year-old English defender during his absence, has reportedly become Erik ten Hag’s preferred choice for the position.
The Portuguese international is likely to be named as United’s captain on a permanent basis and could officially assume the role in the next season.
Meanwhile, Maguire’s underwhelming performances under Erik ten Hag have led to speculation about his potential departure from the Theatre of Dreams.
Last season, he only started eight Premier League games, with Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, and even left-back Luke Shaw being preferred over him.
Newcastle and Aston Villa have expressed interest in signing the center-back, while Chelsea have also been linked with a potential move for the Leicester City player.
However, if Manchester United decides to terminate Maguire’s contract this summer, they would have to pay him £10 million, as he still has two years remaining on his deal.
It is worth noting that Manchester United recently bid farewell to goalkeeper David de Gea, who had spent 12 years at Old Trafford and won the Golden Glove award. This development has sparked reactions from fans and players, including Bruno Fernandes.
Fernandes expressed in an Instagram statement that De Gea deserved a proper send-off at The Red Devils’ stadium, with fans applauding him for all the wonderful memories.
