Manchester United’s second season under manager Erik ten Hag has been severely marred by an ever-growing injury list and lacklustre performances from the team’s top talents.
Casemiro was one of the standout players of the previous year. His arrival nearly single-handedly turned United’s fortunes, enabling the team to break their trophy drought, finish third, and earn a Champions League berth.
The Brazilian has struggled to monitor runners and has often been caught out of position during the current campaign, suggesting that his form has left him.
This season’s troubles for Casemiro
Although the midfield general has scored more goals, it appears as though his legs are tiring and that he is concentrating more on his attacking side of the game. Nevertheless, he has left his position far too frequently.
With loan signing Sofyan Amrabat finding it difficult to fill the vacuum left by the former Real Madrid star’s injury, Ten Hag is undoubtedly feeling his absence.
Due to his dismal performance, Casemiro has been linked to leaving Manchester United after just one and a half seasons, with Saudi Arabia being one of his possible destinations.
The management is having one-on-one talks with the player to try to understand his situation, therefore it seems unlikely that the 31-year-old would leave in the midst of the season.
The chairman of INEOS, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is rumoured to be dissatisfied with United’s expenditure to purchase the five-time Champions League champion, therefore the future of the Brazil international is uncertain with his planned arrival as a minority investor.
Although Benfica’s emerging star Joao Neves appears to be the current hot commodity, with United scouts often observing him in action, United has been connected to a number of midfield players recently.
It’s understandable why he’s so sought after. With eighteen appearances in all competitions, the 19-year-old is a mainstay for Benfica, having assisted and scored once.
Ten Hag greatly admires the versatility of the Portugal international, who normally plays as a defensive midfielder but can also play farther forward and even out wide when needed.
Joao Neves joining Bruno at OT would be wonderful.
In response to a question concerning the teenage phenom, United captain Bruno Fernandes stated that he would love for his countryman to play with him at Oak Park.
“He has excellent quality, and I would love to have him at United!” However, it’s João’s decision. Although it relies on the coach’s ideas, he is an excellent player!
According to Sport TV (via Fabrizio Romano), Fernandes stated, “He will have a great future, in United or somewhere else.”
According to Transfermarkt, Neves’ market worth is €20 million, and his current contract keeps him at Benfica until 2028. To get him to leave Estádio da Luz, a massive offer will be required.
