American midfielder Bruno Fernandes revealed that he still maintains a good relationship with and received congratulations from his predecessor Harry Maguire after becoming the new captain of Man Utd.
"Maguire congratulated me and said he was really happy for me," Fernandes said after the 2-0 friendly win against Arsenal in New Jersey on July 22. "I understand Maguire isn't in the best position right now. That's difficult for him, but Maguire congratulated me. It's great that we always have a good relationship."
On July 20th, Manchester United's official website announced that Fernandes would become the club's captain, replacing Maguire, from the 2023-2024 season. The Portuguese midfielder revealed that manager Erik ten Hag had held a meeting to personally inform the entire team of this decision.
Maguire once admitted he was very disappointed when manager Ten Hag stripped him of the captain's armband and gave it to Bruno Fernandes. Photo: AFP
"Everyone knew about Maguire's situation, but nobody knew who would be the next captain. So, Ten Hag announced the decision in a meeting with all the members," Fernandes recounted. He said he was very proud and emphasized that being captain of Man Utd was a great honor and something he never dreamed of, while also thanking his family for always being there for him throughout this time.
According to Fernandes, he was chosen as Manchester United's new captain by manager Ten Hag because of his discipline, dedication, passion, and strong performances last season. The 28-year-old midfielder affirmed that he will not change his style and wants to lead Manchester United to even greater success.
Bruno Fernandes (in red shirt, left) wears the Manchester United captain's armband for a commemorative photo before the 2-0 victory over Arsenal in New Jersey on July 22nd. Photo: manutd.com
In fact, Fernandes wore the captain's armband for Man Utd several times last season, as Maguire's form declined and he lost his starting position. The Portuguese midfielder scored 14 goals and provided 15 assists in 59 games across all competitions, helping Man Utd finish third in the Premier League to return to the Champions League, win the League Cup, and reach the FA Cup final. Fernandes believes Man Utd had a good season in his first year working with Ten Hag, and wants the whole team to continue improving and fight for every trophy next season.
In his first game as Manchester United's official captain, Fernandes scored a spectacular long-range goal to help the "Red Devils" beat Arsenal 2-0, maintaining their perfect pre-season winning streak, following 1-0 victories over Lyon and 2-0 against Leeds. Ten Hag was pleased with the win against Arsenal, praising the entire team for their proactive play both with and without the ball.
Key events of the Arsenal 0-2 Man Utd match.
Following their victory against Arsenal, Man Utd continued their summer training camp with friendly matches against Wrexham on July 25th, Real Madrid on July 26th, Dortmund on July 30th, Lens on August 5th, and Bilbao on August 6th. Of these, the match against Lens was the only one played at Old Trafford.
Hong Duy
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