Harry Maguire has taken to social media today to confirm that Erik ten Hag has removed him as Manchester United captain ahead of next season. Maguire regularly found himself out of United’s starting XI last season, with Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane and even Victor Lindelof preferred.
The news comes amidst a week where West Ham have been linked with a move for Maguire and it would make sense if the centre-half was now considering his future, given his playing time at Old Trafford is likely to continue to be reduced next season.
Maguire spoke of, while being incredibly disappointed, what a privilege it had been to be United captain since signing for the club.
After discussions with the manager today he has informed me he is changing captain. 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.
So I wanted to say a massive thank you to the Manchester United fans for all their brilliant support whilst I’ve been wearing the armband.
Since the day I took on the role, three and half years ago, it’s been a huge privilege to lead Manchester United and one of the proudest moments of my career to date. It’s one of the greatest honours in club football. I’ve done everything I possibly could to help United be successful – on and off the field.
I will always be grateful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for first giving me the responsibility and I wish whoever now takes it on every success and they will have my full support.
It is yet to be confirmed who will replace him as captain but the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro and Raphael Varane will be in the running.
