3 weeks ago
Casemiro, who was once a linchpin in Real Madrid's midfield, has been struggling to replicate his success at Manchester United. The Brazilian midfielder, who joined United in 2022 for a fee that could rise to £70 million, has faced a decline in form, particularly during the 2023/24 season, and his struggles have continued into the current campaign.
According to reports, the Manchester United squad sympathizes with Casemiro, recognizing that his difficulties on the pitch reflect the broader challenges facing the club. The team's performance issues have not only impacted their overall standing but have also taken a toll on individual players, including Casemiro.
In his debut season at United, Casemiro was one of the team's standout performers, bringing experience and a winning mentality from his time at Real Madrid, where he won five Champions League titles and numerous other trophies. However, as Manchester United's form has dipped, so too has Casemiro's effectiveness, leading to concerns within the squad and among the fans.
The Manchester Evening News reports that the United dressing room understands Casemiro's frustration. The 32-year-old did not anticipate joining a team that would struggle to secure a UEFA Champions League spot at this stage of his career. Having achieved so much with Real Madrid and the Brazil national team, Casemiro likely envisioned joining United as an opportunity to continue competing for top honors. Instead, he finds himself in a team battling for consistency and facing significant pressure under manager Erik ten Hag.
In recent matches, Casemiro's performance has come under scrutiny, particularly during United's home game against Liverpool, where he was at fault for two of the three goals conceded. This has led to speculation that he could be replaced in Ten Hag's starting lineup by summer signing Manuel Ugarte, a younger and potentially more dynamic option in midfield. Casemiro was even substituted at halftime for 20-year-old debutant Toby Collyer in the loss to Liverpool, highlighting the concerns about his current form.
Despite his struggles, Casemiro remains contracted to Manchester United until 2026, and there have been no indications that he is looking to leave the club just yet. While there have been rumors linking him with moves to the Saudi Pro League and Turkey, it appears that the Brazilian midfielder is focused on regaining his form and contributing to United's success.
Casemiro's situation at Manchester United underscores the challenges that can arise when a player moves from a dominant team like Real Madrid to a club that is in the process of rebuilding. His experience and leadership qualities are still highly valued, but the transition to a new environment, particularly one that is not performing at its best, can be difficult even for the most seasoned players.
As the season progresses, it will be crucial for Erik ten Hag to find a way to integrate Casemiro effectively into the team, ensuring that he can play to his strengths while also addressing the issues that have plagued United's midfield. For Casemiro, the challenge will be to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and the expectations at Manchester United, a club that is desperate to return to its former glory.
The support from his teammates suggests that there is still faith in Casemiro's abilities and his potential to turn things around. However, with competition for places in the squad and the pressure to perform at a high level, the coming months will be critical for both Casemiro and Manchester United as they look to improve their fortunes.