Patrice Evra has surprisingly thrown his support behind Harry Maguire to reclaim the Manchester United captaincy as scrutiny mounts on Bruno Fernandes.
Fernandes, handed the armband by Erik ten Hag in 2023 after Harry Maguire was stripped of the role, has faced sharp criticism for his leadership.
While Fernandes is considered one of United’s top players and recently extended his contract until 2027, his on-pitch behavior has sparked concerns.
Graeme Souness labeled the 30-year-old a “liability” after Fernandes received his third red card of the season during a Boxing Day defeat to Wolves.
The Red Devils, struggling in one of their worst periods, are reportedly “starving for leaders on the pitch,” as described by head coach Ruben Amorim on Friday.
Amorim also addressed the decision to extend Maguire’s contract, praising him as “a leader.” The coach added, “We need him a lot, and he has to improve as a leader. Despite the situation he’s faced, we’re happily triggering the option for Harry.”
Maguire, initially expected to leave the club, stayed at Old Trafford after a failed move to West Ham. He has since proven his value, even captaining United in a Carabao Cup win over Barnsley in September. While Lisandro Martinez has worn the armband during Fernandes’ suspensions, Maguire’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed.
United legend Patrice Evra has now publicly backed Maguire for the captaincy. Commenting on Instagram regarding Maguire’s contract extension, Evra wrote: “Give him the armband back!!!! After all he’s been through, he’s shown resilience and leadership.”
Despite Fernandes being set to lead United in Sunday’s clash against Liverpool, expectations are low. With five losses in their last six league matches, the Red Devils currently sit 14th in the Premier League table, far from their glory days.
