Ralf Rangnick hails Scott McTominay as future Manchester United captain after performance in Aston Villa victory

Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, as quoted by the Daily Mail, Ralf Rangnick claimed that Manchester United star Scott McTominay could become a future captain after his brilliant performance in the victory against Aston Villa.

The Scot has taken his game to new levels under the German manager. In the 6 domestic games he has played under Rangnick, Man United have conceded only 3 goals and have kept three clean sheets. His performance against Burnley displayed his attacking talent as well but his defensive resilience came to the shore against Villa on Monday.

Douglas Luiz, John McGinn, and Jacob Ramsey were trying to dominate the midfield, but McTominay’s presence ensured that it was not one-way traffic. His intensity and energy, in particular, were laudable, not to mention his 8th-minute header that ensured a victory for us on the night.

Rangnick praised the 25-year-old’s qualities after the game and touted the midfielder to captain the team someday.

‘He (McTominay) is an academy boy. His energy is amazing. He now also started scoring goals and also with some leadership skills. I would not be surprised if, in a couple of years, he would be the captain of this team.’ 

Captain material

The Scottish international has been quite the leader in recent weeks. Irrespective of his midfield partner, McTominay has produced commendable performances. In fact, it is a wonder how he maintains the high-intensity levels week after week. 

He is also inconsistent at times, but under Rangnick, he has been able to shine on a regular basis, with nary a mistake. Thus, it would be no surprise if he captains the side in a couple of years.

Harry Maguire has not shrouded himself in glory as a leader. Cristiano Ronaldo is also a tricky choice, especially since he has arrived on a short-term contract and often cuts a frustrated figure when the team is performing poorly. 

Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw, and Marcus Rashford are also viable options for the captaincy role, but if McTominay keeps up the consistent performances, the Scot needs to be given the armband soon, not least because he is also one of our own.

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You can’t help but be reminded a bit of Darren Fletcher when thinking about McTominay. Fiery in the middle of the park, the two of them are arguably the greatest Scottish players in our Premier League history and it would only be fitting if McTominay is handed the armband sometime in the future.

Regardless, for now, he needs to focus on ensuring that we secure a spot in the Top 4 this season, while a Cup run is also often appreciated.