FA Cup Final Victory
Manchester United beat their rivals Manchester City 2-1 in a thrilling FA Cup final. Goals from starlets Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo ensured victory and happiness for all United supporters. But it wasn’t without some controversy as it regards the non-selection of Casemiro. The experienced midfielder that has been a pillar for United since joining the club.
Last-Minute Exclusion
The Brazilian was left out of the team at the last minute. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag stated that the player suffered from an injury in the dying minutes before the game, which led to him being replaced. He was replaced by youngster Willy Kambwala in the squad, who is 19. This came as a shock to many as Casemiro is an experienced player and a vital figure in the Manchester United team.
Speculation Over True Reasons
Even though an injury was claimed to be the reason, according to The Mirror, it was reported that Casemiro was dropped and not just because of an injury. Many of United’s injured players are now back, and it’s said that ten Hag doesn’t see the Brazilian as good enough to start the game. Was the manager right to drop the player? Not all fans and pundits agreed with the decision.
Casemiro’s Recent Form and Role Change
The 30-year-old had featured in the last ten matches for Manchester United, and more recently in the last five; he was deployed in a center-back position. This was because of numerous injuries to players in that department. The Brazilian showed his character by being able to adapt to the new position. However, his performance was questioned by many as he was playing out of position. Some say the player’s form had declined and he wasn’t capable of performing at the highest level.
Criticism and Media Scrutiny
The media and some United fans have treated Casemiro rather unfairly in recent times. Pundits have highlighted the perceived flaws in his game and said the player is no longer good enough to play in the English top-flight. This has put pressure on the 32-year-old who has remained consistent for his club and country in recent years.
Speculation About Future Move
With the criticism still ongoing, it has been rumored that Casemiro could be on his way to Saudi Arabia in the summer. Saudi clubs have the financial power to tempt the Brazilian away from the Premier League and offer him a new challenge. This would mean an end to his short spell at Old Trafford and a possible farewell to English football. Will Casemiro move to Saudi Arabia?
Reaction to FA Cup Final Decision
The decision was a hard one to take for Casemiro, without doubt. He decided not to join his teammates for the after-party as he opted to go out with his family. This was a clear indication that all was not well and he was upset with how he was being treated by the club.
How This Will Affect Casemiro’s Morale
This situation with Casemiro being left out of the FA cup final and what has come after could heavily affect his morale and his relationship with Manchester United. A player so good and with so much experience should be a key player in big finals and winning the trophy and being dropped for an inexperienced and young player could be seen by Casemiro as the manager not trusting him.
Moving Forward
As Manchester United celebrate the FA Cup win, things could be coming to an end for Casemiro at the club. It will be interesting in the coming weeks to see if he will still be a Manchester United player or if he will move to pastures new. The offer from Saudi Arabia could be a good one, the trust from the manager might not be and his form could be in question.
Summary
The whole situation with Casemiro and Manchester United shows how hard it can be for a top player and the pressures footballers are under. Despite being a fantastic player for the club, his dropping and the rumours that are surfacing shows how in football tomorrow can never be guaranteed. While fans and pundits will continue to debate why Erik ten Hag left Casemiro out, all eyes will now be on whether Casemiro will remain a Manchester United player or if like many top players he will look for a new adventure away from Old Trafford.