A year ago
Raphael Varane has commended the decision made by Manchester United's manager, Erik ten Hag, to remove Harry Maguire from the captaincy and appoint Bruno Fernandes as the new leader of the team. Varane sees this move as a reflection of the manager's desire to instill the right character and attitude in his players. The French defender praised ten Hag's determination and his ability to lead by example, which has fostered a strong connection between the players and their coach.
Looking back at Erik ten Hag's first season with Manchester United, it can be deemed a success overall. The team managed to secure a commendable 3rd place in the Premier League, earning them a spot in the prestigious Champions League.
Despite the departure of their long-time goalkeeper David De Gea, the Dutch manager skillfully orchestrated the signing of Inter Milan's talented goalkeeper, Andre Onana, to fill the void left by De Gea's absence.
However, amidst the successes, Erik ten Hag faced some difficult decisions, one of which involved Harry Maguire's captaincy. Despite the defender's relatively minor role in the previous season, the manager decided to strip him of the captain's armband and entrust the responsibility to Bruno Fernandes instead. Raphael Varane was quick to praise this bold decision, highlighting the importance of a manager leading with character and not shying away from making tough choices.
"He wants a team with character, and he's the leader, so he has to demonstrate it himself," Varane expressed in an interview with 'ESPN'. "He's not afraid to take these decisions and bear that responsibility. This is precisely what we expect from a manager, and he has shown it by setting an example."
Varane, who joined Manchester United from Real Madrid, lauded ten Hag's clarity of vision and determination for the team's success. From the onset of his tenure, the manager outlined his objectives and expectations, leaving no room for ambiguity. This strong sense of direction has contributed to a positive connection between the players and their coach, fostering a united front on the field.
"We know exactly what he wants. He has demonstrated that determination, and from day one, we have been clear on what needs to be done and where he aims to take us. The instructions are crystal clear for both the players and the team, resulting in a strong bond with the manager," Varane acknowledged.
In conclusion, Erik ten Hag's debut season at Manchester United has been marked by notable achievements and strategic decision-making. The appointment of Bruno Fernandes as captain, replacing Harry Maguire, exemplifies the manager's commitment to building a team with the right character.
This, combined with his clear vision for success, has resulted in a positive and cohesive atmosphere within the squad. As Manchester United looks ahead to future seasons, the team can take confidence in the leadership and direction provided by Erik ten Hag.
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