Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has fallen down the pecking order since manager Erik ten Hag arrived at Old Trafford.
He has started seven Premier League games this season, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane forming the first-choice partnership in the heart of the defence.
Maguire may opt to leave Old Trafford this summer for more game-time.
However, even if he does stay, Ten Hag should take the captaincy away from the England international.
The Dutchman has three players at his disposal who can take over the role next season.
Raphael Varane
The 30-year-old didn’t have a great debut season for United after arriving in 2021 but has shown his best form under Ten Hag this term.
He has formed a robust alliance with Martinez at the back. Varane is mobile, strong and comfortable with the ball at his feet. He flawlessly fits the description of Ten Hag’s ideal centre-back.
Varane won several accolades during his decade-long stay at Real Madrid, including include four Champions League titles, three La Liga Championships and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
He is a leader of the defence and a strong option to be United’s captain next term.
The only thing which goes against him is his poor fitness record. He regularly gets injured and this would force Ten Hag to occasionally name a stand-in skipper.
Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes has worn the armband on several occasions this season with Maguire forced to warm the bench.
Fernandes has led the side from the front, inspiring them to attack and press high up the pitch. He has not missed a single match for United through injury since arriving in January 2020.
The midfielder picked up a knock early on against Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup semi-final but still played in extra time. This spoke volumes about his character and the fight he puts in for the Red Devils.
Ten Hag has repeatedly lauded Fernandes’ determination and passion for the club. He believes he is a perfect example of how a United player should be.
He is the favourite to replace Maguire as the full-time captain next season.
Casemiro
It is not even one year since Casemiro switched to Old Trafford, but the midfielder has shown he has all the traits to lead Man United.
The Red Devils are a completely different side when he is playing.
The 31-year-old brings organisation and discipline to the centre of the park. His Hollywood passes allow United forwards to get behind the defences and create goalscoring opportunities.
Fernandes allows his emotions to get the better of him at times. He could be considered too hot-headed for the captaincy.
If that is the case, Casemiro could be given the armband.
The Brazil international has had a trophy-laden career with Madrid and brings great experience in playing football at the highest level.
Since he was integrated into the starting XI, he has raised the team’s standards to a whole new level.
However, Fernandes has captained the side for most of the season, and not allowing him to be the skipper may create an awkward situation in the dressing room.
Ten Has to weigh his options carefully before he makes his decision.
