23 July 2023 , 15:47
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Bruno Fernandes has said Harry Maguire is "happy" for him after taking over the Manchester United captaincy from the centre-back.
Maguire had worn the armband since 2020, succeeding Ashley Young when the England international joined Inter Milan. However, after the centre-back lost his place to Lisandro Martinez last term, his future as skipper has been the subject of debate.
United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed Maguire is no longer captain, but maintained the defender is still in his plans. And former Sporting star Fernandes, the on-field captain on many occasions last term, has opened up on his conversations with the £80m man.
"He gave me congratulations and he said he is really happy for me," Fernandes said. The Portugal international wore the armband on Saturday for a pre-season friendly against Arsenal, with United winning 2-0 in the United States.
"I understand his position is not the best at the moment. It has to be difficult for him but he came and said congratulations to me and I am happy about that because we have always had a good relationship.
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"Everyone already knew about the situation with H [Maguire] but no one knew who would be the next captain. So [Ten Hag broke the news] in a team meeting with everyone together because it’s something we have to do more often, to keep the things inside and give the compliments inside to ourselves."
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Bruno Fernandes sporting the armband against Arsenal during Man Utd's pre-season tour (AP)
Maguire's future has been the subject of debate, with West Ham among the clubs linked with a swoop, while the return of veteran Jonny Evans on a short-term deal has added further fuel to the fire of speculation. Ten Hag, however, has made his position clear.
"I think everyone can understand that for a player it's a disappointment but it can work out very good for the team and for Harry," the Dutchman said. "He's an important player, we need four centre-backs minimum you have seen last season we play so many games and we are really pleased to have Harry in our squad."
Maguire featured in the States, with goals from Fernandes and Jadon Sancho giving United a 2-0 win over their Premier League rivals. Despite the result, the two teams played out a penalty shoot-out at full-time, though Maguire didn't take a spot-kick himself.
"Didn't want to break the camera," he joked when asked why he didn't partake. The comment was a reference to the Euro 2020 final, when he did just that on England duty.
Man Utd's US tour continues with friendlies against Wrexham, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, followed by games back in Europe against Lens and Atletico Madrid. They will begin their new Premier League campaign on August 14, hosting Wolves.