Erik Ten Hag: "Harry Maguire Is The Captain" As Pre-Season Kicks Off

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed his decision for the captaincy going forward into the 2022/23.

In a pre-match press-conference in Thailand, the new manager addressed many different things from tactics to the situation of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Another issue that has been a topic of interest for Manchester United fans over the summer is the captain's armband, and who will be wearing it under Ten Hag next season.

Harry Maguire was given the responsibility mid-way through his first season with the club after Ashley Young left in January of 2020.

Ten Hag was asked on the situation in the latest press conference and gave an interesting answer to supporters.

His backing for Maguire was clear, but also stressed that he needs to continue to learn about his players over the course of pre-season.

"Harry Maguire is the captain," Ten Hag proclaimed when asked if he had thought about who would get the armband next season.

"I have to get to know all of the players, but he's an established captain and he's achieved a lot of success." He added.

The 29-year-old had a poor season last year and will be wanting to turn a new leaf under Ten Hag.

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Having the backing of the manager is important, and it looks like Maguire has exactly that from the Dutchman for the foreseeable future.

This was also apparent in the reported interest from Barcelona recently.

The Spanish club enquired about the United captain, but Ten Hag was said to be firmly against involving the defender in any negotiations.

It was added that Ten Hag wanted to work with the player, who showed his top form in the season prior to last and during the European Championships last year.

Speaking previously about the English international, Ten Hag has stuck to his assessment of Maguire.

"I have to repeat, next season is a different season," he said when asked about the captaincy in a press conference last month.

"He’s done a good job, he is a great player, he’s achieved a lot and his contribution to United, so I’m looking forward to working with him," he concluded.

Maguire is with the squad in Thailand as they prepare for their opening pre-season fixture against Liverpool.

It's unlikely that he plays a large part in the game as he was part of the group of internationals that joined up with the squad a week later.