Manchester United visit Arsenal at the weekend without star midfielder Casemiro, after he picked up his fifth booking of the season last night.
The Brazilian last 80 minutes without a booking, then scythed down Wilfried Zaha, and could have no complaints at receiving a yellow card.
This is a clear blow for Manchester United for such an important game against the league leading Gunners.
But it is not as bad as it may seem. Let’s flip the situation on it’s head, and look at three reasons to be positive…
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Erik ten Hag forced to end reliance on Casemiro
Erik ten Hag has been totally reliant on Casemiro ever since early October. Considering the team’s form, it’s understandable. But he needs to learn how to trust his squad.
Scott McTominay played well early in the season, including in the wins over Liverpool and Arsenal, yet, he has not been selected to start a Premier League or Europa League game since the first Manchester derby.
Last night’s game against Palace was an ideal chance to rotate, yet, Ten Hag felt he could not do without Casemiro, and took an unnecessary risk.
United have the options to rotate a little more. Obviously the team is better when Casemiro starts, but they are also capable of winning games without him.
This suspension just breaks the habit of having to rely on Casemiro – although conversely, it could have the opposite effect if United lose, re-affirming Ten Hag’s reliance on the Brazilian.
United can send a real statement
It’s advantage Arsenal for this fixture, who enter the game higher in the Premier League table, and with their star midfielder Thomas Partey fully fit.
At the same time, this is a chance for Manchester United to make a real statement with a big away win, to the rest of the Premier League. Gaining four points from these games at Palace and Arsenal would be a good return.
Winning without Casemiro would be a serious statement, from the players available, and a real feather in the cap for Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman will see it as an extra challenge, rather than as a blow, and it will now be an even bigger result to get all three points at The Emirates.
Casemiro gets a much needed rest
One way or another, Casemiro needed a rest. He has been selected constantly by Ten Hag, before and after the World Cup, where he also featured regularly for Brazil.
Now he gets an enforced rest, and in the long run, he will be better for it. United have big games upcoming including a two-legged semi-final, Europa League games with Barcelona, and possibly even a Carabao Cup final.
United don’t need Casemiro running out of steam or picking up an injury at the wrong time. A little rest now can work to his advantage.
Ideally, he would have been rested against Palace, but he gets one belatedly. We might as well look for the best in it.
When he returns for the semi-final at Forest next week, Casemiro will be raring to go, fresh, and extra motivated.
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