Casemiro’s performance in Manchester United’s 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace was heavily criticized, with many fans feeling that the Brazilian midfielder should have been substituted at halftime. Despite his illustrious career at Real Madrid, where he won five Champions League titles, Casemiro has struggled this season at United, with his form dipping significantly.
Previously considered one of the best defensive midfielders of all time, Casemiro has been a key part of United’s decline this season. The team is currently in eighth place in the Premier League with little hope of European qualification. Casemiro, who was instrumental in United’s success last season, has been a shadow of his former self, lacking energy and intensity on the pitch.
Casemiro’s struggles can be partly attributed to the position he has been asked to play in this season. With injuries affecting United’s defensive options, manager Erik ten Hag has had to deploy Casemiro as a central defender, a position where he is not as comfortable as in central midfield. Even in midfield, Casemiro has looked off the pace and has struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League.
When ten Hag first arrived at United, he had hoped to sign Frenkie de Jong as his top target for the midfield, but the deal fell through and Casemiro was brought in as a contingency plan. However, the Brazilian’s performances have not lived up to expectations, and it is clear that he is no longer the solution for United’s midfield woes. As the team faces a summer of change, Casemiro must be shown the exit door to make way for new signings and a fresh start.
United is at a crossroads this summer, with ten Hag’s future at the club uncertain. Regardless of who is in charge next season, it is clear that Casemiro’s time at Old Trafford is up. The team cannot rely on an aging midfielder who has struggled to keep up with the demands of the Premier League. Moving on from Casemiro is necessary for United to move forward and rebuild a competitive squad for the future.
