Manchester United new captain to be unveiled as Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Marcus Rashford are candidate to replace Harry Maguire

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, faces the task of selecting a new captain after relieving Harry Maguire of his leadership role. The decision to remove Maguire as captain does not come as a surprise, considering his decline in form and his diminished presence within the team.

Maguire, who had previously served as captain during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure, played a pivotal role in United’s journey to second place in the Premier League and the Europa League final during the 2020-21 season. However, his performance levels subsequently dropped, raising doubts about his long-term suitability for the captaincy.

It became increasingly evident that a player who started only eight Premier League matches last season should not hold such a prestigious position. Notably, Maguire was brought on as a substitute in the Carabao Cup final solely to lift the trophy—an honorable gesture from Ten Hag, but one that highlighted Maguire’s diminishing influence within the team.

In fact, Maguire did not even make an appearance in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Towards the end of the season, Ten Hag began referring to Bruno Fernandes as the captain, despite Maguire retaining the official title.

While Fernandes appears to be the frontrunner for the permanent captaincy, there are several other strong candidates under consideration. GOAL will delve into these options in the following analysis.

8. Mason Mount

Initially, Mason Mount envisioned a long-term future with Chelsea. However, as the club prioritized numerous new signings without adequately nurturing their homegrown talent, the relationship between Mount and Chelsea deteriorated.

With a strong desire to join Manchester United, Mount’s transfer has filled him with immense joy. While it would be a daring decision to appoint a recently acquired player as captain, it would also signify a tremendous vote of confidence in the midfielder. Bestowing him with such responsibility early on in his Old Trafford journey could prove significant for his development and integration within the club.

7. Christian Eriksen

Eriksen’s professional journey seemed to have come to an abrupt halt when he suffered a cardiac arrest on the field during Euro 2020, resulting in Inter terminating his contract. However, Brentford took a leap of faith and signed him, and a few months later, he secured the biggest move of his life by joining United. Remarkably, the midfielder seamlessly integrated into the team, forging a formidable midfield partnership with Fernandes and Casemiro.

The depth of Eriksen’s experience is unrivaled by many in the squad, and his ability to rebuild his career showcases immense character. His contributions on and off the field make him a strong contender for the captain’s role, as he epitomizes leadership qualities.

6. Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw, Manchester United longest-serving player following David de Gea’s departure, possesses the qualities that would deem him captain material at numerous top clubs across Europe.

Not only does Shaw excel as a left-back, but he also assumes a prominent leadership role both at the club and international level. Furthermore, his performances consistently demonstrate his reliability and dedication to the team. Demonstrating his commitment to Manchester United, Shaw has recently inked a new contract that extends until 2027.

5. Rahael Varane

There is no denying the impressive resume of the Frenchman. With four Champions League trophies, three La Liga titles, and a World Cup winner’s medal, Varane has amassed a wealth of experience. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of working under esteemed managers like Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Zinedine Zidane, and Rafa Benitez.

Varane may not possess an outspoken, rousing leadership style, but his actions on the field and his ability to lead by example speak volumes. Additionally, his fluency in three languages renders him well-suited to captain a modern and diverse dressing room, such as the one at Manchester United.

4. Lisandro Martinez

Following Manchester United’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in April, which posed a threat to their top-four aspirations, manager Martinez delivered a passionate message. He emphasized the need for his team to fight harder than their opponents, to play with greater passion and energy. These words resonated with United fans, who were dismayed by their team’s lackluster performance at St James’ Park.

Despite not being the tallest player in the squad, Martinez possesses an unwavering determination to rise to any challenge. Shortly after joining United from Ajax last season, he swiftly became one of the most influential figures in the team’s dressing room. He also showcased his commanding presence by playing a crucial role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph.

Martinez’s courageous style of play is evident, and it is no coincidence that the team faced difficulties in the final six weeks of the season when he was sidelined with a metatarsal injury. Having worked closely with Ten Hag for the past four years, Martinez is now fully fit and eager to assume additional responsibilities and proudly wear the captain’s armband.

3. Casemiro

When the Brazilian midfielder arrived at Manchester United, his English language skills were limited. However, it didn’t take long for him to establish his authority within the team. Casemiro communicates fluently in the universal language of football, and few players exhibit such proficiency in this regard.

Casemiro’s impressive track record of eight years at Real Madrid, including five Champions League triumphs with Los Blancos, undoubtedly bolstered his credentials. Additionally, his decade-long experience representing Brazil further solidified his standing. At Old Trafford, he brought a contagious blend of desire, hunger, and ambition, instantly raising the standards for his new teammates.

Every tackle Casemiro makes exudes a sense of urgency as if his entire existence hinges on winning the ball. Manchester United has been longing for a midfielder of his caliber since the days of Roy Keane, a legendary captain. There is no reason why Casemiro couldn’t fill that leadership role admirably.

2. Bruno Fernandes

If you seek evidence of Fernandes’ unwavering commitment to the club, one need only observe his remarkable recovery from a painful foot injury sustained during the FA Cup semi-final against Brighton. Despite being photographed with crutches and wearing a protective boot, a mere four days later, he resolutely returned to the starting lineup against Tottenham. Displaying early-season vigor, Fernandes delivered an exceptional all-round performance, capped by a dream assist for Marcus Rashford.

Given his extensive experience wearing the armband in Maguire’s absence last season, Fernandes naturally emerges as the prime candidate to succeed him as captain. His desire and ability to inspire his teammates are beyond question. However, it should be noted that his leadership approach does not always yield the intended effect.

Fernandes occasionally exhibits a tendency to express frustration through arm gestures and vocal complaints when United face adversity. Unfortunately, this can inadvertently contribute to a sense of despondency among his teammates, as was evident in the disheartening 7-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield.

1.  Marcus Rashford

Who could be more fitting to lead the team onto the pitch than a man who has been a part of the club since his early years? Born and raised in Wythenshawe, south Manchester, and a member of Manchester United since the age of seven, Rashford embodies the spirit of the club.

In addition to being one of Ten Hag’s most talented and consistent players, Rashford is the epitome of an ideal club ambassador. He demonstrated immense courage by taking on the Conservative government during the pandemic, advocating for children’s right to free school meals during holidays.

Rashford has also fought tenaciously to revive his career. Following a disappointing 2021-22 season, he cut short his summer vacation to dedicate himself to strength and conditioning training at Nike’s headquarters in Oregon. His return was marked by a newfound freshness and strength, resulting in him scoring 30 goals in a single season for the first time and rightfully earning the title of United’s Player of the Year.

As he prepares to sign his new contract, making him the highest-paid player in the club’s history, the time is ripe for Rashford to assume the captain’s armband. His deep connection to the club, outstanding performances, and commendable off-field endeavors make him an exceptional choice for this prestigious role.