Raphael Varane, a defender for Manchester United, is persuaded that club coach Erik ten Hag isn’t scared to make important decisions when he stripped Harry Maguire of the captaincy and replaced him with Bruno Fernandes.
Harry Maguire’s captaincy was revoked by the Dutch football coach, who instead gave Fernandes the armband in time for the upcoming season.
Varane claimed that Ten Hag has a distinct vision for the United team and has demonstrated great tenacity since joining the team.
Raphael Varane told ESPN: “He wants a team with character and he’s the leader so he has to show it himself.
“He’s not scared to take these decisions and take that responsibility. That is what we expect from the manager. He did it so I think, with things like this, you show by example.
“He knows exactly what he wants. He’s shown that determination and from the first day we’ve known exactly what we’ve had to do and where he wants to go. It’s all clear for the players and for the team and we have a good connection with the manager.”
Although Maguire was originally named captain by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the defender is no longer a frequent starter under ten Hag.
Maguire acknowledged that he was “extremely disappointed” at Ten Hag’s choice.
But Maguire insisted that he is determined to keep giving United everything he has.
Maguire wrote on Twitter: “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.
“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.”
Maguire thanked Solskjaer for selecting him as captain in a separate statement.
He said: “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,” he added. “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. 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 hasn’t shied away from upsetting prominent individuals while serving as United’s manager, notably Cristiano Ronaldo, who ultimately left the team.
