Ralf Rangnick is confident Manchester United’s fans will not turn on skipper Harry Maguire at Old Trafford when they entertain his former club Leicester.
Rangnick said he “didn’t understand” why England fans booed Maguire’s name when it was read out at Wembley before the friendly win over Ivory Coast.
Gareth Southgate and Harry Kane led the defence of Maguire after the game.
“He knows my position towards him,” said Rangnick. “He’s been a very valuable player for the team.”
United’s German interim manager, speaking before Saturday’s match (kick-of 17:30), added: “I didn’t understand what happened at Wembley but it won’t happen in our stadium with the Red Army.”
Maguire has been the subject of a barrage of social media criticism.
Brazilian midfielder Fred has received similar treatment over the past few months as United have struggled to match lofty pre-season expectations, while Rangnick said he has noted criticism for Scott McTominay as well.
“I don’t think this is a personal thing,” Rangnick said. “It isn’t anything to do with Harry himself because one or two other players have been criticised in the last few months.
“Fred is a very important player for this team, playing regularly for us and Brazil. I watched his game for them and he did well.
“Maybe it’s still got to do with the high expectations around this club and people tend to compare with former players and legends.”
United will be missing veteran striker Edinson Cavani for the game after he suffered a calf injury during Uruguay’s World Cup win over Chile.
The 35-year-old has made just nine appearances – and started five games – since the beginning of November due to injury, scoring his only goal during that period against Newcastle on 27 December.
“Edinson is injured again and will be out for the next couple of weeks,” said Rangnick.
