Bruno Fernandes scored the vital goal but there were several impressive performers for Manchester United against Arsenal.
Ruben Amorim will be frustrated to leave Old Trafford without three points after Manchester United missed a flurry of late chances against Arsenal.
The Red Devils set up to counter-attack against the Gunners, and it looked as though both teams would head into the break level before Bruno Fernandes scored a superb free-kick.
It was later revealed that the Arsenal wall was placed more than 11 yards away from the ball, so Bruno Fernandes took advantage and fired United into the lead.
Alejandro Garnacho impressed out wide and United fans raved about Ayden Heaven, but there was one player who flew under the radar.
Casemiro shines for Man United vs Arsenal
Fernandes will deservedly get the plaudits for yet another superb performance in midfield. Rio Ferdinand raved about Fernandes on social media, questioning Roy Keane’s criticism.
But next to Fernandes in midfield, Casemiro was extremely impressive against the Gunners.
It has been a great week for the Brazilian with Paul Scholes praising Casemiro for his role against Real Sociedad in the Europa League clash on Thursday.
Casemiro kept his spot against Arsenal, and he put on a defensive masterclass in midfield.
Here are a collection of Casemiro’s stats from United’s draw against Arsenal:
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Touches | 37 |
| Passes completed | 83% (15/18) |
| Duels won | 75% (12/16) |
| Tackles won | 9/10 (90%) |
| Possessions lost | 3 |
Casemiro thrived defensively, winning 12 total duels and winning nine tackles – more than any other player on the pitch.
Casemiro has a role to play after confirming Man Utd future
When Ineos were looking to trim the squad over January, Casemiro was linked to Saudi Arabia in a £25m move.
Eventually, the window slammed shut and the 33-year-old stayed put at Old Trafford. Despite being told by Jamie Carragher to “leave the football before it leaves you”, Casemiro is determined to stay at United and contribute to the club’s long-term plan under Amorim.
His performance on Sunday suggests that another year of Casemiro could be a good thing for United and Amorim.
He doesn’t have to start every week, but his leadership and experience are invaluable in what is now a very young and inexperienced squad.
Harry Maguire called Casemiro a leader in the dressing room – even if he is not able to contribute on the pitch as much as he used to, he still has a big role to play in this squad.
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