Casemiro to Manchester United: Will Brazilian solve their midfield woes?

Casemiro is a brave man if he’s willing to step into the Old Trafford cauldron. Rebuffing Manchester United’s initial offer, the Brazilian now stands close to joining the bottom-placed strugglers. There is little doubt that the club are in a mess- two defeats in two, a disjointed squad, irate supporters, boardroom chaos- but the 30-year-old is undeterred by the prospect. If there were doubts over his exit still, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelloti confirmed his intention to leave after nine years at the club:

“I have spoken with Casemiro. He wants to try a new challenge. We understand his decision. Negotiations are ongoing but he has decided to leave Real Madrid,” quotes Metro.

Also Read: Why Casemiro is moving from Real Madrid to Manchester United

“Casemiro will not play on Saturday. Replacement? We have signed [Aurelien] Tchouaméni and he’s one of the best on the market. Then we have [Toni] Kroos and [Eduardo] Camavinga. Yesterday I realised it was a real thing [Casemiro to Man Utd]. My plans won’t change,” added the Italian.

United boss Erik Ten Hag has been crying out for midfield options. Christian Eriksen’s arrival was a show of strength, but the Dutchman has failed to fit him into their scheme. Starting as false9 against Brighton, he played as a deep-lying midfielder against Brentford. The ploy backfired, as Eriksen- like his United colleagues- was suffocated by the Bees’ pressing game.

Negotiations with Barcelona for Frenkie de Jong hit the skids, as did moves for Adrien Rabiot, Fabio Luiz and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. But Casemiro’s imminent arrival- likely to undergo a medical on Friday- raises some optimism at the club. However, he will miss the Monday night fixture against Liverpool. But the Brazilian is a curious signing for a Ten Hag side: known to build from the back, play around opposition pressure, etc. At Madrid, he had two midfield masters- Luka Modric and Toni Kroos- to help move the ball from back to front. Known to struggle against the press, he would take advanced positions when Madrid had possession against high-pressing teams.

Also Read: Casemiro’s Manchester United transfer: Where deal with Real Madrid player stands

But what he does add is midfield steel. A master at sussing danger, Casemiro’s presence will likely prevent a repeat of the third goal United conceded at Brentford. But aside from better screening against counterattacks, how he stacks up is anyone’s guess. But a sturdy centre and offering Cristiano Ronaldo some Real comforts (with Varane to tango) is all United can ask for the now.