Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes cannot hide his enthusiasm at being handed the captain’s armband at Old Trafford.
In his first interview as the official United skipper, Fernandes revealed his feelings after receiving such a flattering duty.
“Obviously, it’s a great honour,” he told ManUtd.com. “The first time [I wore the captain’s armband] was in the Champions League against PSG.
“I was getting a little bit surprised by Ole, but obviously I said to him at the time it’s just such an honour for me.
“I still have the armband and the shirt from that game because I wanted to keep it for me, because this is something that is not for everyone.
“And it’s something that has to make you proud, has to make you understand that you are in a place where everyone would like to be: playing for Man United.
“Having the chance to have the armband and having that responsibility is such a big honour.”
Erik ten Hag has identified the 28-year-old as the new leader after stripping underachieving Harry Maguire of the captaincy at the end of last season.
United unveiled the former Sporting Lisbon playmaker as the new skipper on Thursday amid the Red Devils’ pre-season preparations ahead of the impending Champions League return.
Fernandes is no stranger to the role, having worn the band countless times over the past three years, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer first entrusting him with this privilege in 2021.
His appointment as the new Man United captain was a mere formality, considering both the club and fans view the Portugal international as the best-fitting profile for the role.
Fernandes was the on-field skipper as the Red Devils overcame Newcastle United 2-0 in February’s League Cup final but had to hoist the trophy alongside Maguire during the ceremony.
It will no longer be the case, as the Englishman’s future at the Theatre of Dream hangs by a thread while the Portuguese ace embarks on a well-earned new chapter.
