Manchester United midfielder Casemiro struggled in the preseason defeat to Liverpoolwith a performance that only served to prove Erik ten Hag right.
Just 10 minutes into the contest at Williams-Brice Stadium in South Carolina, Liverpool forward Fabio Carvalho opened the scoring by skipping past Casemiro before finishing past Andre Onana. The Brazilian veteran was left on the grass looking foolish by the impressive Carvalho, leading to more questions about whether he can survive at the top level anymore entering the new Premier League season.
Casemiro is still only 32 and regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders of his generation. He impressed during his first season at Old Trafford but struggled last season leading to concerns he is past his peak.
Last month, Ten Hag was noncommittal about the future of Casemiro. The Dutch coach was asked whether the Brazilian may remain at United for another year, and he was notably vague with his answer.
“You have to make choices,” Ten Hag told reporters. “We need a squad, and at that time also we needed a squad and what was needed for that particular game. But he is a very important player.
“He is a leader and he can make a difference for our team. I talk in general, but it is for all the players. When they are needed… no-one can play every game, it’s impossible.”
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