Tuanzebe: Maguire's had a massive impact on the club

Just six months into his Reds career, England international Maguire was given the armband on a permanent basis following the departure of Ashley Young to Internazionale in mid-January.

It is a tremendous achievement for Harry that highlights just how highly he is respected by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the coaching staff and, perhaps most importantly, the players. 

Tuanzebe, of course, is a natural-born leader himself and knows all about captaining a United team, after skippering a variety of age groups throughout his education in the Academy, most recently leading out the seniors for this season’s Carabao Cup tie against Rochdale at Old Trafford.  

The 22-year-old, who speaks with the maturity and wisdom of a much older player, has watched Maguire closely this campaign and is totally convinced that he is the right man for the job. 

Speaking to us in Spain earlier this week, during United’s warm-weather training camp at the Marbella Football Centre, Axel offers this assessment of Maguire’s appointment as captain.

“Massive respect to him for getting the captaincy,” said Axel. “For me, I don't think it is ever about how long you have been somewhere. It is the impact you give and the time you spend with the lads. 

“He's had a massive impact on the club, he has been a real example and has managed to lead all of the time. We are improving. We are a young side and given time, I think we will be very strong and contending for real titles. But I just want to send massive congratulations to Harry, because I think he deserves it with the impact that he's given to the club.”

Tuanzebe is currently training away from the main group in Spain as he continues to recover from an injury that has frustratingly limited him to just 10 appearances across all competitions this season. 

The physically-imposing defender is edging closer to a return, however, and plans to play a role in this season’s run-in, as he explained when asked about his individual goals for the months ahead.

“A lot of things really, but I just to help the team grow really,” he said. “I think we are a very young side, so I just want to be a leader constantly, whether it is vocally or by example, and just to help us to develop and grow as a team. That is it really and obviously to improve myself in the process.”

As for the team’s objectives, Tuanzebe states everybody is determined to finish the Premier League season on a high while going all out to win the Europa League and Emirates FA Cup. 

“Yeah, I think that is definitely the motive,” Axel explained. “For a young side to go out and win a cup can be a little spark that ignites something special. We work hard, we demonstrate a lot of potential, a lot of good play, we want to improve and that is what I have been saying from the start. 

“It is only upwards for this group. If you want something to grow, it takes time. I think we have only been getting better throughout the season and I am very excited to see what is to come.”

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