Erik ten Hag Must Discipline Casemiro, Says Manchester United Legend Dwight Yorke
It has been a turbulent start to the season for Manchester United and their manager Erik ten Hag, with wins over Wolves and Nottingham Forest and defeats to Tottenham and Arsenal, with plenty more chaos off the field. With Antony on a leave of absence after abuse allegations and Jadon Sancho in a public spat with his manager, it would seem that Casemiro is the least of Ten Hag’s worries, but Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke believes the Dutchman needs to have a word with the former Real Madrid man.
Casemiro’s Role in the Team
Tasked with being the most defensive-minded of United’s midfield, Yorke reckons Casemiro is not sticking to his duties and must be reminded of what his role in the team is. ‘Casemiro had a great debut season where he scored some crucial games and I think he’s getting a bit carried away by venturing forward too much,’ Yorke told Genting Casino. ‘He’s supposed to be the anchor in midfield, but I keep seeing him in advanced positions. He’s ahead of the play most of the time, and it’s difficult for him to make those runs back.
Casemiro needs to relax and stop trying to play in the final third. He was never known as a goalscorer at Madrid, and I think the manager needs to tell him to stay in the number six position. He doesn’t have the energy to track back so often, and that’s why you’re seeing United being overwhelmed in the middle of the park. I’d say more discipline is needed as we all know how good he is when he plays in his natural position.’
Sofyan Amrabat
Sofyan Amrabat has been brought in on loan from Fiorentina and will be helping out Casemiro with the defensive duties in midfield, but maybe not on Saturday when the Red Devils play Brighton. Amrabat missed Morocco’s games over the international break with a minor injury and it is yet to be confirmed whether he will be fit this weekend or not.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen whether Ten Hag will take Yorke’s advice and discipline Casemiro for his lack of defensive discipline, but it is clear that the Brazilian needs to stick to his role in order for United to be successful this season. With Amrabat possibly out for Saturday’s game, it will be up to Casemiro to take control of the midfield and ensure that United are not overrun against Brighton.