‘I wanted to cry’ - Bruno Fernandes opens up on Erik ten Hag captaincy chat at Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes says being Manchester United captain is beyond anything he dreamed of and unpacked what Erik ten Hag told him about his decision to hand him the armband. Fernandes had led United out for most of last season as former skipper Harry Maguire warmed the bench and Ten Hag took the decision to give the playmaker his honour full-time given Maguire’s much-reduced game time.

"He showed me why he was choosing me, why he was happy with everything I’ve done in the past,” Fernandes told club media when asked about how his manager delivered the news. It was good to hear from him and even better to know I was going to be the new captain of the club."

Fernandes has been rated as United’s best signing since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson and has remarkably never missed a game through injury. The 29-year-old was the natural choice and favourite to become the next captain given his consistency and prior experience.

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The news was nevertheless a special moment for the ex-Sporting Lisbon skipper, who referenced the inspiration of Cristiano Ronaldo. When asked how he felt upon being bestowed the honour, Fernandes replied: "A mix of emotions. I wanted to cry at the same time, with joy of course.

“You dream of these things, but you never think you can achieve them. Portugal and Manchester United have a connection through Cristiano, so for me having looked up to him as a player and then getting to this place, I am extremely happy. Being the captain of this club is above my dreams."

Fernandes lifted the League Cup alongside Maguire at Wembley in February in what was the pair's first piece of silverware at United. Fernandes said this was a