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Harry Maguire has confirmed that he has been stripped of the Manchester United captaincy after discussions with manager Erik ten Hag.
The 30-year-old has posted a statement on Twitter informing fans that he will no longer wear the United armband. He said that although he;s extremely disappointed, he will continue to give his all for the club:
"After discussions with the manager today, he has informed me he is changing captain. He outlined his reasons to me, and whilst I’m personally extremely disappointed, I will continue to give my all every time I wear the shirt."
Maguire continued by thanking fans for their support over the years. He was appointed captain in January 2020.
"So I wanted to say a massive thank you to the Manchester United fans for all their brilliant support whilst I’ve been wearing the armband."
He added:
"Since the day I took on the role, three and half years ago, it’s been a huge privilege to lead Manchester United and one of the proudest moments of my career to date.
"It’s one of the greatest honours in club football. I’ve done everything I possibly could to help United be successful - on and off the field."
The England international concluded by thanking former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for appointing him as captain. He wished whoever takes the captaincy the best:
"I will always be grateful to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for first giving me the responsibility, and I wish whoever now takes it on every success, and they will have my full support."
Ten Hag's decision to take the captaincy off Harry Maguire is only going to add more fuel to speculation regarding the defender's potential departure. The Englishman has fallen out of favor with Ten Hag and is no longer first-choice.
He started eight of 16 league games last season and is now no longer captain of the Red Devils. The armband will likely be heading in Bruno Fernandes' direction, as he was vice-captain to Maguire last season.
West Ham interested in Manchester United's Harry Maguire
West Ham United have reportedly set their sights on Harry Maguire as he continues to endure a difficult spell at Manchester United. The Englishman joined the Red Devils in 2019 for £80 million, a world-record fee for a defender.
However, that fee has often been a burden on Maguire, as his performances have constantly been under the microscope. His appointment as captain in 2020 only heaped more pressure on his shoulders. Last season was a frustrating one for the defender, as he lacked game time under Ten Hag.
According to BBC Sport, Maguire is a West Ham target, as manager David Moyes looks to use the £105 million fee paid by Arsenal for Declan Rice. Maguire is understood to be happy at Old Trafford but knows that his lack of game time could harm his chances of continuing with England at Euro 2024.
Harry Maguire has two years left in his contract, and Ten Hag's decision to strip him of his captaincy is telling of his place in his side. Manchester United are willing to sell him if a suitable offer is made.
