Raphael Varane hails Erik Ten Hag for making big captaincy decision

In preparation for the new season, the United manager stripped Harry Maguire of the captaincy and handed Fernandes the armband.

Harry Maguire has struggled to cement a place in Erik Ten Hag side which has led to speculation of him leaving the club this summer.

The French defender, who has been a revelation for Manchester United since his move from Spanish giant Real Madrid, has hailed his manager’s decision.

According to Varane, ten Hag has a distinct vision for the United team and has demonstrated incredible tenacity ever since being hired.

Varane told ESPN as reported by Daily Mail, “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.”

Maguire acknowledged that he was "very upset" at Ten Hag's choice. Yet Maguire insisted that he is determined to keep giving United everything he has.

The defender, who was earlier named captain by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, has lost favour with Ten Hag and is no longer a frequent starter.

Maguire wrote on Twitter as reported by Daily Mail, “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.”

Manchester United are set to continue their preseason as they face last season’s title challengers Arsenal tomorrow.