Premier League club Manchester United have announced the appointment of midfielder Bruno Fernandes as the new club captain.
The Portuguese international was the top candidate to wear the armband after manager Erik ten Hag took it off Harry Maguire.
Fernandes wore it for most of last season with Maguire on the bench and has now been handed the permanent captaincy.
Fernandes is a pillar of quality and productivity for United, featuring in all but one of their Premier League games last term. He bagged eight goals and eight assists.
He helped United win the League Cup last season – their first trophy in six years. United also reached the FA Cup final, where they lost to rivals Manchester City.
United announced the decision on their official website: “Bruno Fernandes has been named as the new club captain of Manchester United.
“The Portuguese midfielder has already worn the armband for United on numerous occasions, and Erik ten Hag has confirmed that he will now lead the team on a permanent basis.
“Fernandes has scored 64 goals and contributed 54 assists in just 185 games for the club since joining in 2020.
“As captain, the two-time Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year will continue to drive the highest standards throughout the squad as United push for success in the 2023/24 season and beyond.”
As for Maguire, it looks like his time at the club has ended. However, United will not allow him to leave cheaply.
West Ham United made a loan bid, but United rejected it. They will hope to get him off their wage bill before the transfer window closes.
