Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United's manager, has asserted his sole authority in choosing the next club captain, amid several team reshuffles, including the potential departure of current captain, Harry Maguire.
Maguire, who has captained the team since 2020, is now seen as the fifth-choice centre-back, behind Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and even full-back Luke Shaw. He may face a transfer, with United reportedly open to this possibility. This shift is crucial, especially in light of England head coach Gareth Southgate's warning that Maguire could risk his spot in the national team without regular club play.
Bruno Fernandes, who stepped up as acting captain in Maguire's absence last season, is speculated to be the most likely candidate for the permanent armband, but Ten Hag is adamant: "No, I don't let the dressing room vote," he confirmed. "It is up to me."
Moreover, the recent departure of goalie David de Gea, whose contract expired in June, has left the team seeking replacements. Inter Milan's Andre Onana has emerged as a promising option. "Goalkeeper is a key position, but I am happy with the players we have now," Ten Hag commented. Dean Henderson, who had an impressive season on loan at Nottingham Forest, is also seen as a potential candidate if the pursuit of Onana doesn't pan out.
On the other hand, Mason Mount, a recent acquisition from Chelsea, has made a promising start. He debuted in United's 2-0 preseason victory against Leeds, and Ten Hag appears satisfied with Mount's contributions so far. "He is a complete midfield player...a very good player who suits Manchester United and can help us achieve our goals," Ten Hag commented.
Meanwhile, the club has allegedly lowered the asking price for Maguire, but potential buyers still consider the deal as "unachievable" due to his high weekly wages. This transition is essential for United to fund its own signings, but a solution has not yet been found.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, there's a buzz that Serie A clubs like Juventus, Inter, and Milan are interested in Maguire, but the player himself is not in a rush to leave. Other Premier League clubs, including Tottenham and West Ham, have also been linked with the defender.
As the club faces these transitions, Ten Hag's assertive leadership continues to shape the team's future and expectations.
