Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag has been named captain, and may not be popular with some.
Harry Maguire, who became the world’s most expensive defender when he moved to Old Trafford, will continue as boss. The English star received the bracelet just a few months after his stint at the club.
Now, Ten Hag has maintained faith with Maguire, stating (opens a new tab): “I have to know all the players, but he is a consolidated captain and has achieved a lot of success.”
(Image credit: PA Images)
Maguire has been criticized lately for his performances with the United shirt and it is still rumored that Ten Hag will look to sign a replacement for him in his left center-back position. Lisandro Martínez of Ajax is closely linked.
Last season, Maguire was harshly criticized by fans and even by former United boss Roy Keane, who hit him (opens a new tab) after a bad form for the club and the country. Ralf Rangnick later dropped the defender while he was interim coach at Old Trafford.
There were even rumors that Cristiano Ronaldo was less than impressed with his teammate, with the Portuguese going to Rangnick to address the lack of leadership on the side.
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Former Red Devils captain Gary Neville has spoken out (opens in a new tab) in support of Ten Hag’s decision to keep Maguire.
“Okay!” The Sky Sports expert said. “So the same United fans who are scared with me to applaud the decision to keep Maguire as captain it seems that without knowing how to criticize the new coach for his decision. Maybe support Maguire and stop harassing him here ( Twitter).
“The new coach obviously likes it.”
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Frenkie de Jong has been United’s main target this summer and the Red Devils are about to agree a deal, although they remain willing to leave if the price is not right and Harry Maguire even got into talks in a moment given.
An offer has been made for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, while United have signed Feyenoord left-back Tyrell Malacia.
Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio has emerged as a surprise target, but Erik ten Hag will have a budget of just £ 100 million to work on this summer.