Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag ‘considering dropping star man for Manchester derby’
Erik ten Hag, the Manchester United manager, is contemplating a bold decision to potentially exclude Casemiro from the starting lineup in the upcoming Manchester derby against City.
This decision is being considered even if the Brazilian star is fit to play.
Casemiro had been a regular starter for Manchester United in all competitions this season until he missed the game against Sheffield United due to a minor injury sustained while on international duty.
While recovering in Brazil, the 31-year-old will also be suspended for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Copenhagen, following a red card in the previous game against Galatasaray.
For the weekend’s crucial fixture against Manchester City at Old Trafford, there’s a possibility that Ten Hag might leave Casemiro out of the team.
The player’s form this season has apparently raised concerns for the United boss, which might lead to this decision.
During the match against Sheffield United, Scott McTominay and Sofyan Amrabat filled the midfield roles, and both of them could retain their places.
McTominay has been in outstanding form, scoring three goals in his last two appearances for the team, while Amrabat showcased his abilities in midfield after initially playing as a left-back.
Erik ten Hag unhappy with Casemiro
Ten Hag indicated his dissatisfaction with Casemiro’s performance by substituting him with Christian Eriksen at half-time during the comeback victory against Brentford, stating that he wanted more in terms of passing, distribution, and link-up play.
Former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher has been critical of Casemiro’s form this season, suggesting that the player’s athleticism has declined.
Carragher made these comments while expressing his concerns about Casemiro’s performance during previous matches, particularly at Anfield, and likened it to Fabinho’s situation at Liverpool the previous season.
“I think Casemiro’s legs have gone.
I noticed it last season at Anfield and I didn’t like what I saw. It took me back to watching Fabinho last year for Liverpool. I want to be the first to say it, I don’t want to say it when everyone else is saying his legs have gone.”
Said Carragher.
