Erik ten Hag's Bold Move: Stripping Harry Maguire of Manchester United Captaincy Sparks Major Controversy

Ten Hag has proven to be adept at making bold decisions and implementing significant changes at Manchester United. He has already replaced Harry Maguire as the team's captain, swiftly moved on from Cristiano Ronaldo, and even bid farewell to long-serving goalkeeper David De Gea. In managing these transitions, Ten Hag has exhibited a ruthless determination to bring about a new era at the club. Drawing inspiration from Niccolo Machiavelli's infamous quote, he understands that leading the way in introducing a fresh order of things is a challenging and uncertain task. In navigating this complex landscape, Ten Hag has had to engage in his own form of political maneuvering.

They say that instead of putting energy into battling the old, the key to transformation lies in creating something new. This is exactly what he has been tasked with – building his innovative vision while dismantling the foundations established by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's United. It's no wonder then that Ralf Rangnick believed it would take a span of six years to accomplish this feat.

Throughout this process, he has faced criticism from all angles. It would have made a more resolute statement if he had swiftly moved any or all of these players upon his arrival. However, he has chosen to exercise patience and wait for the opportune moment, recognizing the importance of producing tangible results alongside the desired transformation.

Opinions were divided on how events unfolded. Former captain Roy Keane criticized the management, saying, "I do not think it has been great." Rio Ferdinand, another ex-skipper, expressed disappointment in the club's handling of De Gea's departure.

Naturally, there will also be sympathy for Maguire losing the captaincy. However, credit should be given to Ten Hag for successfully navigating this delicate situation.

He has been ruthless but he has been patient. Those two qualities are far from synonymous but the pace of change feels well judged.

Doing it quicker would have been risky.

Rewriting:

Slowing down would have compromised his principles. None of these players aligned well with his vision, despite being the top earners at the club. One of them held the captaincy role, while the others were esteemed United legends, both having received the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award more times than anyone else.

His approach with Ronaldo set the tone.

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Erik ten Hag and Cristiano Ronaldo clashed during their time together at Old Trafford

The experienced forward did not possess the willingness or ability to carry out Ten Hag's preferred playing style. "Pressing is a crucial element for me. I expect my team to exhibit a strong pressing game." The Dutch coach must have anticipated the clash of philosophies from the beginning.

Externally, this was not apparent. "I am excited about collaborating with him," he expressed initially. "Cristiano is not available for transfer. He is part of our future plans. We aim for success together." Subsequently, he remarked, "We are content with him. He is adaptable to any system or style of play."

Ten Hag was fully aware of it, but instead of forcefully pushing Ronaldo towards the exit, he tactfully guided him. Interestingly, leading up to his last match for the club, Ronaldo had actually started nine out of the 13 previous games. Despite this, Ronaldo was still greatly upset, while others were more accepting.

In contrast, De Gea's departure has been less controversial, although following a similar pattern. "I am truly delighted with David, as he is an exceptional goalkeeper. At only 31 years old, he is in good shape and has the potential for further improvement. He has already displayed remarkable performances for Manchester United and will continue to do so in the future."

The comments were made in November, despite De Gea struggling to adapt to the new requirements. Ten Hag insisted that his goalkeeper would remain, although his tone changed. "I cannot guarantee he will always be my first choice."

Ten Hag acknowledged that it was too challenging to replace his goalkeeper right away, as other priorities took precedence.

Gea's skills were sufficient to secure victories, but the coach recognized that Andre Onana was a more suitable option due to his superior ball control, which is vital for the desired build-up style of play implemented by Ten Hag. The timing was opportune for this switch.

Likewise, dealing with Maguire required careful consideration. Immediately removing him as captain would have been inflammatory. However, now it can be viewed as a practical decision, stemming from his diminishing significance within the team, potentially ranking as United's fourth or fifth choice center-back.

Maguire's defensive prowess is unquestionable, but his ability to distribute the ball swiftly and his lack of speed pose challenges, especially when playing with an advanced defensive line. Additionally, his manager's inclination towards having a left-footed player on the left side of the defense adds further complexity.

Ten Hag's statements, once again, leave room for interpretation. "I am content with his presence and he fulfilled his responsibilities when called upon," he expressed at the conclusion of the previous season. "However, the ultimate decision rests with him." It appears that another uncomfortable scenario is coming to an end.

The next step could be the most interesting.

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Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes with Erik ten Hag and the Carabao Cup trophy

Ten Hag accomplished all this while delivering results that assured the support and commitment of both players and fans, effectively conveying the notion of progress. The team's prolonged six-year trophy drought was successfully ended, and they secured a spot in the Champions League.

Currently, the Manchester United squad bears a much stronger resemblance to Ten Hag's own creation. Onana, the third player from his previous Ajax team, has joined him at Old Trafford. Additionally, two more players from the Eredivisie have been recruited. It is evident that Ten Hag's impact on the club's recruitment process cannot be denied.

Erik ten Hag's legacy will be determined by what comes next.