Erik ten Hag Makes Decision on Axing Bruno Fernandes as Man United Captain

Erik ten Hag Makes Decision on Axing Bruno Fernandes as Man United Captain

Fred Kennedy
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:27 PM
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  • Bruno Fernandes has come under sharp criticism in recent weeks due to his performances
  • A section of fans and pundits have called on Erik ten Hag to get rid of the midfielder as the captain
  • Fernandes has been stepping in for Harry Maguire, who has not been having enough game time under Ten Hag

Erik ten Hag has reportedly decided against axing Bruno Fernandes as the Manchester United captain.

Fernandes has been United's stand-in captain, with official skipper, Harry Maguire not getting enough playing time under Ten Hag.

However, the Portuguese midfielder has sometimes come under immense criticism from a section of fans and pundits, with some suggesting he is not fit to lead the dressing room.

Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United, Premier League, Erik ten Hag, Harry Maguire.
Bruno Fernandes looks dejected during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United at Selhurst Park. Photo by James Gill.
Source: Getty Images

According to Metro UK, Bruno Fernandes's alleged lack of leadership skills came to the fore on Sunday during United's 7-0 humiliation against Liverpool at Anfield.

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So underwhelming he was during the Premier League cracker that he appeared to ask to be substituted at some point in the second half.

The former Sporting Lisbon star was spotted gesturing to come off the field after Liverpool scored their sixth, with his actions courting criticism.

Man United legend Gary Nevill was among those to hit out at the midfielder, with the legendary defender describing Bruno's actions as a 'disgrace.'

Ten Hag makes decision on Bruno's captaincy

However, Ten Hag is said to have 'no plans' of stripping Bruno of captaincy roles despite calls from several quarters to take action.

According to The Sun, the Dutchman is keen to have the midfield maestro retain the armband in the interim.

The development comes after it emerged that the Portugal international spoke to his teammates in the wake of the Anfield humiliation and urged them to make amends in the next match.

The Red Devils are scheduled to return to action on Thursday when they take on Real Betis in the Europa League.

Fernandes denies asking for substitution

Meanwhile, Man United skipper Bruno Fernandes denied he sought a sub during his side's demolition at Anfield, Sports Brief also reported.

The Red Devils went into the clash off a fantastic run of form that had seen them end their six-year wait for a trophy, claiming the Carabao Cup.

One of the most bizarre things from the match happened deep in the second half when Fernandes appeared to gesture for a switching-out.

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Fred Kennedy
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