Peter Schmeichel Calls for Harry Maguire’s Return as Manchester United Captain After Liverpool Win
Former Manchester United goalkeeper and club legend, Peter Schmeichel, has thrown his weight behind Harry Maguire to reclaim the captain’s armband at Old Trafford, following United’s dramatic 2–1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield.
In a stunning upset that ended United’s decade-long winless run at Anfield, goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Maguire’s late header sealed a memorable triumph for the Red Devils, who have struggled for consistency all season.
While many fans hailed the team’s fighting spirit, Schmeichel’s attention was firmly on one man—Harry Maguire. The Danish legend, speaking to Viaplay after the match, lauded Maguire’s leadership and composure, insisting that the England international embodies the traits of a true Manchester United captain.
“I can’t praise him enough. I want Harry Maguire to play every game. I want him to be the captain — he’s got all the attributes of a good Manchester United leader,” Schmeichel said.
The former United No. 1 acknowledged Maguire’s physical limitations but emphasized his organizational ability and calm influence on teammates.
“He’s not the quickest, and he can struggle on the turn, but United have had defenders like that before. What they had were quick players beside them — that’s what we lack now,” he added.
Schmeichel’s comments came with a subtle critique of current captain Bruno Fernandes, whose passion and creativity he praised, but whose emotional body language he suggested sometimes sends the wrong message.
“Bruno is a fantastic player, but sometimes I don’t like his reactions. Harry doesn’t have that — he’s calm, composed, and takes responsibility. That’s what this team needs right now,” Schmeichel concluded.
Opinion: Why Schmeichel Might Be Right About Maguire
Schmeichel’s call might raise eyebrows among fans who remember Maguire’s turbulent spell as captain, marked by criticism and poor form. But there’s no denying that the Englishman’s recent resurgence under pressure has been remarkable.
From being almost sold last summer to now scoring crucial goals and marshalling the backline with renewed confidence, Maguire has reminded everyone of his resilience. Leadership isn’t just about flair — it’s about presence, communication, and consistency, qualities that Maguire has shown in abundance lately.
Bruno Fernandes, on the other hand, remains a talismanic player but can sometimes appear overly emotional on the pitch. United, a club once defined by calm but commanding captains like Roy Keane, Nemanja Vidić, and yes, Peter Schmeichel himself, may indeed benefit from Maguire’s quieter strength.
If this performance was a sign of things to come, perhaps Schmeichel’s call for Maguire’s reinstatement isn’t nostalgia — it might just be common sense.
