Bruno Fernandes, despite his antics in the humiliating 7-0 loss to Liverpool, will still remain captain of Manchester United, according to Erik ten Hag.
After appearing to request to be substituted amid the onslaught in Sunday’s crushing loss at Anfield, Fernandes came under fire for his behavior.
Ten Hag has, however, made it official that the midfielder would continue to represent the team while club captain Harry Maguire is absent on the field for the remainder of the year.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash with Real Betis, the United boss explained: “Yes, definitely [still captain], I think he’s playing a brilliant season.
“He’s played an important role in the position that we are.
“He’s giving energy to the team. Running a lot with intensity, in the right way. He’s pointing and coaching players. He’s an inspiration for the whole team.
“No one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes. I’m really happy to have Bruno Fernandes in my team and I’m happy with him as our captain with Harry not on the pitch.”
Erik ten Hag says Bruno Fernandes will remain Man United’s captain in the absence of Harry Maguire 💪 pic.twitter.com/ozHgkNeOgu
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) March 8, 2023
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Marcus Rashford also spoke to the media during the pre-match press conference and was full of praise for his team-mate, adding:Â “I love playing with Bruno, as you can imagine.Â
He’s the perfect player to play with. He’s been a good leader for us. Even when he’s not captain, which is always a good sign.
“He’s helped other players become better leaders and the reality is that we can’t be an organised team in terms of just one leader being captain.
“He’s done a lot for us. I don’t have anything negative to say about Bruno. As the manager said, nobody is perfect. I support him and I’m 100% behind him.”
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