Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim opted to start the game against Newcastle United with a midfield pairing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, in the absence of the suspended Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte.
The Magpies ran rings around the veteran duo and it is clear to see that they lack the intensity demanded by the Portuguese and both are on the market this January.
The Brazilian, after a brilliant debut season, has struggled to handle the pace of the English game and under Amorim, he has managed only 318 minutes.
As relayed by The Peoples Person, Saudi Arabian clubs are eyeing his signature with Al Nassr leading the race but INEOS will likely have to accept a £30 million loss on their initial investment.
Casemiro might stay
But with Kobbie Mainoo’s game time needing to be managed, Amorim needs options at hand and in case both experienced midfielders leave, he might be left too light in the midfield department.
That is why, as per Givemesport, United might reconsider their stance surrounding the Brazilian and he might remain at Old Trafford until the summer.
The report, however, does make clear that the former Real Madrid superstar is not in Amorim’s long-term plans and this will be his final season in Manchester. That is unless an offer that cannot be refused were to land up.
“GMS sources have been informed that Amorim is fearful of being left short of options in the middle of the park if he allows Casemiro to embark on a fresh challenge in the coming weeks, resulting in him being on course to remain at Old Trafford unless a lucrative offer is made by an interested party.
Amorim does not want to be short-staffed in midfield
“Casemiro is not part of Amorim’s vision at Manchester United beyond this season, GMS sources have learned, but the former Sporting chief does not want to run the risk of being left with limited midfielders as he looks to oversee a recovery after falling to within seven points of 18th-placed Ipswich Town.”
United would ideally like to get his wages of £350,000 a week (as per capology) off the books as it would offer wriggling room to afford a player in the winter window.
The 20-time English league champions are in dire need of a left wingback and striker but unless player sales occur, the club will struggle to hand Amorim any reinforcements despite the club’s current predicament.
This might also be a ploy to raise his price so that they can recoup more from Al Nassr. It will be interesting see what happens with the five-time Champions League winner in January.
Feature image Eddie Keogh via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
