5 players who can replace Harry Maguire as Manchester United captain

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Villarreal CF v Manchester United: Group F - UEFA Champions League
Villarreal CF v Manchester United: Group F - UEFA Champions League

#3 Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Manchester United v Crystal Palace - Premier League

Back in October of 2020, Bruno Fernandes got his first opportunity to lead the Red Devils after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer handed him the captain's armband. It was a big moment for the star. Fernandes wore the armband against PSG in the Champions League as Maguire was injured.

Having had the experience of leading Sporting Lisbon while in Portugal, Fernandes stepped up to answer Solskjaer's call, adding his name to the scoresheet.

Under Ralf Rangnick's management, Harry Maguire has spent a number of games on the bench. With the permanent captain not starting, Bruno Fernandes has led the team against Aston Villa and Brentford.

The playmaker has taken charge with ease and is currently enjoying a brilliant run of form. With two goals and two assists in their last two games, Fernandes has no problem performing with the pressure of the armband.


#2 David de Gea

Brentford v Manchester United - Premier League
Brentford v Manchester United - Premier League

A clear, obvious player who could captain the Red Devils moving forward is Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea. Aside from the fact that he is currently Manchester United's longest-serving player, the star goalkeeper has shown a high level of consistency.

De Gea was reportedly in line for the armband and he would have gotten it instead of Harry Maguire. However, the star's criticism of Solskjaer's tactics and his teammates is believed to have damaged his chances of leading United.

David de Gea, though, has captained the Red Devils a number of times in the past. The Spanish star opened up about his experiences as the team's leader after agreeing to a new six-year deal at Old Trafford back in 2019.

"I've been captain for some games. Of course, it is amazing to be captain of a club like Manchester United and defend this badge. It's amazing, so of course, I'll be really, really happy to be captain."

#1 Cristiano Ronaldo

Brentford v Manchester United - Premier League
Brentford v Manchester United - Premier League

When Ralf Rangnick named Cristiano Ronaldo as captain for Manchester United's game against Wolves, it took the United fanbase by storm. Harry Maguire was out due to an injury and Rangnick delighted many fans with his decision.

It didn't take long for many fans to call for the Portuguese talisman to be made the permanent captain. However, Rangnick has insisted that a change won't be made as he doesn't see a reason to strip Maguire of the armband.

Ronaldo stunned the footballing world when Manchester United announced his return. However, the club has struggled this season. The Portuguese star has been seen motivating his teammates during games. He has also urged members of the squad to improve their mentality in interviews.

Rangnick, so far, has supported Ronaldo's words but isn't ready to give the star the armband permanently. If Maguire is eventually removed from the role, Ronaldo will certainly be a strong choice to become the next captain.

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