Casemiro’s sluggish start to the season has raised further questions about his role in the team.
The Brazilian veteran lost his place in the team towards the end of last season. He was dropped from his preferred role for the FA Cup final, with Sofyan Amrabat getting the nod, but still started the 2024/25 campaign playing in front of the back four.
United’s back four doesn’t get the protection it needs when Casemiro is sitting in front of it. That is why United targeted a new defensive midfielder in the summer transfer market.
Although it took United the entire transfer window to find that player, it’s also a boost when you land a primary target, just like receiving a slots sign bonus before a successful stint at the machines.
Manuel Ugarte joined from Paris Saint-Germain but has yet to make his debut. There is hope that he will be able to feature against Southampton this weekend after playing two games for Uruguay during the September international break.
This means Casemiro’s position as a first-team starter now looks under serious threat. He didn’t cover himself in glory during the defeat against Liverpool before the international break.
Speaking to reporters after the 3-0 defeat versus Liverpool, Ten Hag stressed that Casemiro still has a role at United. The manager said: “I’m sure he is a great character and he won everything in his career what you can imagine. I am sure he will keep contributing to our team and Casemiro is always winning so he will be there.”
Ugarte got 90 minutes under his belt for Uruguay in a scoreless draw against Venezuela, which may put him in a position where he may start against the Saints without any ill effects.
The reality of the situation is Casemiro’s form does not warrant a starting place. For that reason, Ugarte is under pressure to hit the ground running. At least his performances for Uruguay were positive.
Teammates’ theory for Casemiro form
It is understood that teammates believe Casemiro’s decline at United has come as a consequence of the club’s own struggles.
Dressing room sources claim Casemiro, who won five Champions Leagues at Real Madrid, “didn’t sign up” for a second season to attempt to qualify for the Champions League.
United struggled last term due to injuries and finished eighth in the Premier League, despite going on to win the FA Cup against Man City at Wembley.
