VERY SAD Bruno Fernandez news has been announced this morning as Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has stripped him off the Captain Batch and the new Captain has been named.
Maya Le Tissier has been named Manchester United’s new captain for the 2024/25 season, succeeding Katie Zelem, who left the club during the summer transfer window.
Le Tissier, a central defender who arrived from Brighton & Hove Albion two years ago, has quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the team’s defensive line, demonstrating consistent reliability and skill.
On her new role, Le Tissier shared, “I am deeply honored to be named captain of this amazing club. I am excited to lead the team both on and off the pitch with great pride.” Her promotion comes in the wake of Katie Zelem’s departure, who captained the team since 2019, leading them to an FA Cup victory in May before moving to Angel City FC in the NWSL after her contract ended.
Le Tissier’s solid performances over the past seasons have been notable, including a strong defensive partnership with Millie Turner that helped Manchester United achieve a Women’s Super League record of 14 clean sheets during the 2022/23 season, securing a second-place finish in the league.
Her club achievements have also caught the attention of the national team, earning her a senior England call-up following the Lionesses’ Euro 2022 win. Le Tissier has made four appearances for England and was included on the standby list for the 2023 World Cup, traveling with the squad to Australia but not featuring in the matches.
Despite her impressive form, Le Tissier’s international progress has been slightly limited by England manager Sarina Wiegman, who views her as a full-back rather than her preferred center-back role.
At the end of the 2023/24 season, Le Tissier was jointly awarded United’s Players’ Player of the Year with Ella Toone, who has been appointed vice-captain. Manchester United previously lacked a designated deputy captain under Zelem, although Hayley Ladd often assumed the role in Zelem’s absence. Both Le Tissier and Toone are considered pivotal for the club’s future.
Le Tissier has recently signed a new contract extending her stay at Manchester United until 2028, while Toone, United’s all-time leading appearance maker and top scorer with 53 goals in 164 games, is contracted until the end of the next season.
Le Tissier’s appointment as captain highlights Manchester United’s confidence in her leadership abilities and her rapid rise within the team. She is anticipated to play a crucial role in the squad’s defense and leadership as they aim for further achievements in the upcoming season.
