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After a turbulent 2024–25 campaign that saw Manchester United finish 16th in the Premier League and fall short in the UEFA Europa League final, new manager Ruben Amorim is making bold changes both on and off the pitch. In a major overhaul of the club’s leadership structure, Amorim has reinstated Harry Maguire to a key role while also introducing fresh voices to foster accountability and unity within the squad.
In an interview with The Athletic, Amorim unveiled a six-man leadership group consisting of Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Lisandro MartĂnez, Diogo Dalot, Tom Heaton, and new signing Noussair Mazraoui. Moving away from the traditional captain-and-vice-captain hierarchy, Amorim’s democratic approach places responsibility across multiple experienced figures, aiming to create a stronger sense of shared leadership.
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Maguire’s Road to Redemption
For Harry Maguire, this marks a remarkable personal comeback. Once stripped of the captaincy under former manager Erik ten Hag due to inconsistent performances, Maguire endured heavy criticism and uncertainty over his future at Old Trafford. Yet, the defender quietly worked his way back into the team, becoming one of United’s most reliable performers last season despite the club’s struggles.
Amorim’s decision to reinstate Maguire highlights the centre-back’s improved form, leadership qualities, and resilience. His return to the leadership core is a significant vote of confidence from both the manager and his teammates.
Maguire’s journey reflects United’s broader need for redemption. Once a cornerstone of the defence, he had been widely tipped for an exit just a year ago. Now, his resurgence offers a symbol of the fighting spirit Amorim hopes to rekindle throughout the squad.
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A Leadership Group for a New Era
Perhaps the most intriguing inclusion is Noussair Mazraoui, the Moroccan full-back signed earlier this summer. Despite being a recent arrival, Mazraoui has already impressed Amorim with his character and presence in the dressing room.
By selecting players with different personalities, playing styles, and levels of experience, Amorim aims to create a leadership group that represents the entire squad. The inclusion of Tom Heaton, despite his limited playing time, adds a veteran voice to mentor younger players and reinforce standards off the pitch.
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Amorim’s Rebuild After a Chaotic Season
United’s catastrophic 2024–25 season saw the club endure its worst league finish in the Premier League era. The team’s collapse cost Erik ten Hag his job and left supporters questioning the squad’s mentality and direction.
Amorim, known for his success at Sporting CP, was brought in to inject new ideas, rebuild the squad, and instil a culture of accountability. His leadership reshuffle is part of a broader effort to reset the club’s culture and identity.
The summer transfer window has already seen significant changes. Bryan Mbeumo has arrived from Brentford, while Matheus Cunha was signed from Wolves to bolster the attack. United are also reportedly pursuing highly rated Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko as they look to add firepower.
This new leadership group will play a pivotal role in integrating signings, maintaining high standards in training, and ensuring that off-field issues are handled internally—freeing up Amorim to focus on football matters.
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Maguire’s Importance in Defence
Last season, Maguire’s return to form was one of the few bright spots for United. With Lisandro MartĂnez struggling with injuries and Raphael Varane leaving at the end of his contract, Maguire stepped up in a struggling defence.
His aerial dominance, organisational skills, and improved composure on the ball gave United stability at the back. Reinstating him in the leadership core not only rewards his performances but also gives the squad an authoritative voice in defence to complement Fernandes’ influence in midfield.
Amorim’s Vision for Long-Term Success
Speaking to the BBC, Amorim expressed his desire to remain at United for the long haul despite a difficult start.
The Portuguese manager’s decision to adopt a collaborative approach to leadership reflects modern football’s shift toward shared responsibility. Instead of burdening one player with all the captaincy duties, Amorim’s structure allows multiple senior figures to handle issues and mentor younger players.
This could prove crucial as United aim to integrate new signings and promote academy talents in the coming years.
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Looking Ahead to the 2025–26 Season
United’s pre-season preparations continue with a clash against Everton in the Premier League Summer Series before they open their league campaign against Arsenal on August 17. The fixtures will provide an early glimpse of Amorim’s tactical ideas and the impact of his new signings.
Supporters will also be keen to see how the new leadership group influences performances on the pitch. Can Maguire, Fernandes, and their fellow leaders inspire a revival after last season’s humiliation?
The stakes are high. United not only need to improve results but also rebuild trust with their fanbase, who have endured years of inconsistency and disappointment.
A New Beginning
Maguire’s return to the leadership core is symbolic of Amorim’s approach—rewarding form, commitment, and character over reputation. By giving fresh leaders like Mazraoui a voice, Amorim is signalling a break from old hierarchies that failed to deliver.
Whether this new model leads to success remains to be seen, but it marks a clear attempt to reset Manchester United’s culture. For Maguire, it is also a personal redemption story—a chance to prove that he still has a vital role to play at Old Trafford.
As United gear up for the 2025–26 season, the message is clear: leadership is no longer the burden of one man but a shared responsibility. With Amorim at the helm and Maguire back in the fold, the Red Devils hope that unity, accountability, and a renewed fighting spirit will finally bring them back to where they belong.
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