Who will replace Harry Maguire as Man Utd captain?

The Red Devils will have a new captain at the start of the next season.

Harry Maguire is “extremely disappointed” after being stripped of Manchester United captaincy.

Speculations over the captaincy role started last season as Maguire struggled to secure regular playing time under Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman has decided to replace Maguire with a new skipper ahead of the next campaign.

“After discussions with the manager today he has informed me he is changing captain,” Maguire’s statement on social media reads.

“He outlined his reasons to me and whilst I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt.”

Having made only 16 appearances for Man Utd last season, Maguire is heavily linked with a move away from the club this summer.

According to BBC, West Ham are Maguire’s main suitors ahead of the next campaign.

The England international’s current deal at Old Trafford runs until 2025. However, after the record breaking sale of Declan Rice, the Hammers are in a good position to add new players to their squad.

United’s next captain?

Unlike Liverpool, who are facing uncertainty over Jordan Henderson’s successor, there’s little doubt at Old Trafford over who will be the next captain.

In Maguire’s absence, Bruno Fernandes wore the armband for most of the 2022-23 campaign. The Portuguese midfielder is the No.1 candidate to replace Maguire as Man Utd’s next captain.

Speaking on Fernandes’ role in the squad, Ten Hag said in January: “I think he’s an example [for other players],” Ten Hag said about Fernandes. “That’s also the reason why he often wears the armband.

“That’s exemplified by his energy. He’s so good in transition, both ways, and that’s one of the key elements in today’s football.

“He’s so good in it and he gives so much quality in that part of the game. The team’s really happy with him and I’m really happy with him.”