Harry Maguire’s time at Manchester United appears to be coming to an end after being forcibly stripped of his captaincy by manager Erik ten Hag.
The England defender has had few opportunities under Ten Hag and is expected to depart the club this summer, with West Ham interested in signing him.
Bruno Fernandes, who has worn the armband in Maguire’s absence on a regular basis, is poised to take over permanently.
Maguire remarked in a social media statement:
“After speaking with the manager today, he informed me that he is changing captain.” He explained his reasoning to me, and while I’m personally disappointed, I will continue to give it my all every time I put on the jersey.”
Maguire was given the captain’s armband by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer immediately after joining United from Leicester in 2019.
Despite his international success, he has struggled for form at club level, with Ten Hag preferring Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane in central defense.
Victor Lindelof currently appears to be ahead of the former Sheffield United man in the pecking order, with left-back Luke Shaw even being preferred at times.
Maguire’s departure from United appears to be unavoidable, with West Ham manager David Moyes allegedly anxious to bring him to the London Stadium.
Maguire went on to say:
“I’d like to thank the Manchester United fans for their incredible support while I’ve been wearing the armband.” It’s been a wonderful honor to lead Manchester United since the day I started the job three and a half years ago, and one of the proudest moments of my career to date.
“It’s one of the most prestigious honors in club football.” I’ve done everything I could to assist United succeed, both on and off the field. I shall be eternally thankful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for first entrusting me with the task, and I wish whoever takes it on success and my complete support.”
Ten Hag said at the close of last season that Maguire will be the one to decide where his future rests. “I’m glad he’s here, and he did his job when we needed him.”
“However, he must make a choice.” Nobody would be happy in this circumstance, and he isn’t either. He always trains at his peak, putting in his all. He handles the issue well and is crucial to the team.”
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