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Man United have to keep trusting Casemiro – and give him the start against Southampton this weekend.
Manchester United Football Club have lost their last two Premier League games, with the Red Devils instantly under pressure to perform and ease the stress on Erik ten Hag.
The biggest culprit for mistakes this term has been Casemiro. The man from Brazil looked like a schoolboy against fully grown men when he took to the field against Liverpool. He’d last just 45 minutes before being substituted.
Case has come under heavy fire since. Fans are now calling for his spot in the team, particularly as Manuel Ugarte is now here and ready to shake things up in that defensive midfield position.
However, in the short-term, United must keep the faith in the struggling star and hand him a start against Southampton this weekend. Here’s why…
First and foremost, Ugarte isn’t anywhere near ready to play. He admitted as much while away with Uruguay over the last fortnight, which were his first competitive minutes since the Copa America. Throwing a half-fit new signing into the fire never feels like a good idea.
Next up you have the fact that Case is well-rested. He’s had a fortnight off. He’s no doubt chomping at the bit to get back out there and prove his worth. I’d argue he’ll never be in a better position to do just that, at least from a fitness standpoint.
Casemiro’s wife via IG. pic.twitter.com/N1GVQudtCg
— UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) September 1, 2024
We’re not talking about some chump here. Casemiro is one of the best midfielders to ever grace the game, while his trophy haul speaks for itself. Don’t forget that not too long ago, he was among United’s most important players. Are you really going to bet against the Brazilian while he has a point to prove? I certainly wouldn’t.
This is a footballer who is vastly experienced. He’ll know better than anyone that he wasn’t good enough against Liverpool and he will look to fix those problems here. He looks in better physical shape than I’ve ever seen him in, at least during his Old Trafford career, and with his back up against the wall I fully believe we’re going to get a top display from Casemiro here.
Yes, it’s less trendy to keep Ugarte on the bench but it just makes sense to ease him in, while Casemiro will be fully motivated to do all he can to ensure than his South American counterpart remains on the periphery of the starting XI for as long as possible.
Do you think Casemiro will bounce back? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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