Casemiro Unhappy with Erik ten Hag’s Tactics, Rio Ferdinand Defends the Midfielder Amid Criticism
Casemiro, who joined Manchester United in August 2022 for a significant fee from Real Madrid, is reportedly dissatisfied with the tactical approach employed by manager Erik ten Hag.
The Brazilian midfielder, who had a strong first season at Old Trafford, has struggled to replicate that form, raising concerns about his ability to keep up with the pace of Premier League games.
According to Manchester United insider Andy Mitten, who spoke on the “Talk of the Devils” podcast, Casemiro felt exposed by United’s playing style last season.
The five-time Champions League winner believed that the tactics left him vulnerable, highlighting his weaknesses rather than playing to his strengths.
These concerns have seemingly persisted into the current season, as United’s disjointed performances have left both Casemiro and his midfield partner, Kobbie Mainoo, covering large areas of the pitch.
The criticism reached a peak after United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool, where Casemiro was at fault for losing possession in the build-up to two of the goals and was subsequently substituted at halftime. Pundits, including Jamie Carragher, have suggested that Casemiro might no longer be capable of performing at the highest level, sparking debates about his future role in the team.
However, former United defender Rio Ferdinand has come to Casemiro’s defense. Speaking on his YouTube channel, “Rio Ferdinand Presents,” Ferdinand called the criticism “highly disrespectful,” pointing out that Casemiro has been one of United’s standout performers in previous matches. He argued that Casemiro is being asked to play a role that doesn’t align with the one he excelled in at Real Madrid, where his primary duties were defensive—covering gaps, tackling, and passing the ball to more creative players.
Ferdinand’s defense underscores the idea that Casemiro’s struggles may be more about tactical mismatches than a decline in his abilities. With United’s style of play under Ten Hag still a work in progress, the midfielder’s frustrations might be symptomatic of broader issues within the team’s setup, rather than a personal decline in form.
As United looks to bounce back after the international break, it remains to be seen whether Ten Hag will adjust his tactics to better suit Casemiro’s strengths, or if new signing Manuel Ugarte might be given a more prominent role in the midfield.
Casemiro Unhappy with Erik ten Hag’s Tactics, Rio Ferdinand Defends the Midfielder Amid Criticism
