Erik ten Hag got his Manchester United reign up and running in style at the third attempt on Monday night with a statement win over Liverpool.
However, as impressive as United were against their arch-rivals to record a priceless victory, there were a couple of noticeable caveats. Ten Hag decided to axe both club captain Harry Maguire and United's talisman, Cristiano Ronaldo, for the crunch clash - and the onus is now on the Dutchman to decide what comes next for two of the biggest names at Old Trafford.
Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane looked imperious against one of the Premier League's most potent sides, and Maguire now seems destined to become United's odd man out at the back.
The 29-year-old's position as captain would surely become untenable if that does materialise in the coming weeks, but Ten Hag has already hinted that he has hatched a contingency plan.
Back when it was confirmed that Maguire would retain the armband despite his struggles, Ten Hag outlined his desire to have a group of leaders rather than relying on any individuals.
Speaking back in July, he said: "I always see the captaincy as an issue that I dictate. Team building for me is an important point and I always talk about a group of leaders. The captain is a really important one and I'm happy with him."
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After highlighting the importance of other players stepping up to lead, Ten Hag handed the armband to Bruno Fernandes for the Red Devils' shock 2-1 win over Liverpool.
Fernandes repaid that faith by producing his best performance for some time against United's arch rivals, while Varane was also picked out for his leadership abilities by Ten Hag after the match.
He told Sky Sports: "I think [Fernandes] took the responsibility and I think he showed leadership with Rapha Varane on the pitch. They make a huge difference but that is what we have to bring but not just them two, we need more leaders. When you want a winning team, you want more leaders and you need spirit what we showed today."
In another boost for Ten Hag, the former Ajax chief believes that Casemiro is capable of taking on a leadership role at the club, as well as adding some much-needed nous to the Manchester United dressing room.
The Red Devils' latest £60million capture - who was unveiled to fans before Monday night's match - is a vastly experienced figure and has played a crucial role in a Real Madrid team that has become almost synonymous with success over the past decade.
"He has won so many trophies in his career," Ten Hag said after the match. "He knows the road: how you win games and finally how you win trophies. We [now] have more players who have won already many trophies in their careers. That has to be a guidance for the rest of the team so they know and they understand how to win games."
