Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes has replaced Harry Maguire as the new Manchester United skipper. Maguire, who could only play 16 matches for the Red Devils in the previous season across competitions, was recently stripped of the captaincy by head coach Erik Ten Hag.

In fact, Fernandes had led Manchester United in the previous season in the absence of Harry Maguire, who failed to find his place in the final XI on a consistent basis. Erik Ten Hag gave more opportunities to the duo of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as center-back and thus Maguire could only get limited matches.

The Portuguese have all the experience under his belt as he has 64 goals and 54 assists in 185 games for the club across all competitions. Ergo, Fernandes will look to lead from the front and get the best out of his players on the pitch.

“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,” United said in a statement.

“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.”

Meanwhile, Manchester United have kicked off their preseason on a high, beating Ligue 1 side Lyon 1-0 on Wednesday. They will now travel to the United States where they will take on teams like Arsenal, Wrexham, Real Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund in friendly matches ahead of the new campaign.

Manchester United finished the previous season in the third position with a total of 75 points, and thus also qualified for the UEFA Champions League after failing to make it to the tournament in the last edition.