Manchester United keep having bad news after bad news this season, with this time Brazilian midfielder Casemiro involved. A bad start to the season with many poor performances has led to the Red Devils just in 10th position, losing half of the 8 games they have played.
Another issue with the team is their long list of injuries since the beginning of the season, already losing many key players like Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Lisandro Martinez. And now, another key player in Casemiro has also been sidelined.
Casemiro injury update
United fans will be unhappy to hear Casemiro injured, especially when he was so crucial to the struggling team. The injury happened during the current international break, with Casemiro leading Brazil as the captain against Venezuela. It was part of their World Cup qualifiers, ending in a 1-1 draw.
During the 79th minute of the game, Casemiro appeared to ask to be substituted. He was then promptly brought off the pitch with AndrĂ© replacing him. It was later told in the media that he suffered a problem in his ankle. Brazil’s interim manager Fernando Diniz said, “He asked to come off due to a blow to his ankle.” United have released a club statement regarding the injury as well.
🇧🇷 Brazil National Team Head Coach Fernando Diniz confirms Casemiro injury: "Casemiro asked to come off due to a blow to his ankle." [@globoesporteSP via @CaughtOffside] #mufc pic.twitter.com/1saizZzOz0
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) October 13, 2023
This adds to the long list of injuries the club is facing, partly leading to their poor performances. Looking at the injury list, the club has decided to launch an investigation as to why such a high number of injuries are taking place.
As of yet, there are no indications of how serious the injury is, and how long he could be out for. He has still not left the Brazilian national team camp as they prepare for their next match against Uruguay on Tuesday. Whether he participates or not is a big question.
Casemiro struggle continues despite productive season
Despite United’s poor season, Casemiro continued his impactful performances from last season, often saving the team from conceding another goal. The midfielder has 4 goals in the 11 games he has played, often being the deciding factor for the team.
However, while United will miss him through injury now, he also received a red card in the Champions League group stage against Galatasaray, meaning he will have missed some crucial matches in the esteemed competition anyway.
Often helping out his team with important tackles and passes, Casemiro has been a shield between the midfield and the backline, though the team’s overall performances has lead to his failure as well. His leadership on the pitch can also be seen, such as when he scored two late goals against Bayern Munich to help keep the game alive, though losing later due to mistakes of other players. Despite this, there are some who believe that the Brazilian is actually holding back the team.
It remains to be seen how long the Brazilian will be out, with both United and Brazil facing potential games without him.