Manchester United have named midfielder Bruno Fernandes as their new club captain.
Manager Erik ten Hag made the decision to strip Harry Maguire of the armband earlier this week – a decision the England international admitted he was “extremely disappointed” about.
Fernandes captained the Red Devils on numerous occasions last season while Maguire was left out of the team, and the Portugal international was considered the front-runner to inherit the honour on a permanent basis.
Man United have now confirmed the news, appointing Fernandes as captain just three years after he joined the club.
The 28-year-old has established himself as a key member of the team during that time, scoring 64 goals and registering 54 assists in 185 games for the club.
“Bruno Fernandes has been named as the new club captain of Manchester United,” read a statement from the club.
“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.
“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.”
Fernandes is understood to have rejected big-money approaches for the Saudi Pro League in favour of staying at Old Trafford this season.
The playmaker could captain United for the first time since his permanent appointment when they face domestic rivals Arsenal in pre-season on Saturday, while their first game of the new Premier League campaign comes against Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 14.
