Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 7:07 am GMT
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag remains firmly in support of midfielder Casemiro, despite the Brazilian facing criticism following a disappointing performance against Liverpool. Ten Hag’s confidence comes as United gears up to face Southampton, where the newly signed Manuel Ugarte will also make his presence felt in the squad, adding competition for starting positions.
Casemiro’s Struggles and Ten Hag’s Trust
In the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool, Casemiro’s errors led to two goals, prompting Ten Hag to substitute him at halftime. This marked a significant low point in what has been an up-and-down season for the experienced player. However, Ten Hag emphasized the importance of Casemiro to the team, stating, “I definitely need him, for sure.” He indicated that while every player can have an off day, the expectation is for experienced players to bounce back from such setbacks.
“Of course I speak with him about the situation, but everyone can have a bad day at the office,” Ten Hag remarked. He underscored that Casemiro’s career and experience will help him overcome this hurdle. “It’s not the first time, I guess, he has dealt with a bad game and now he has to overcome this one as well,” Ten Hag added, asserting that highs and lows are part of a footballer’s journey.
New Competition from Ugarte
As Manchester United welcomes Manuel Ugarte, who joined from Paris St Germain for a fee believed to be around £41 million, the dynamics within the midfield are set to change. Ugarte’s arrival places additional pressure on Casemiro, as both players vie for a starting spot. Ugarte is eligible to debut against Southampton, and Ten Hag acknowledged that “there is always competition” at this level.
Casemiro during a training session as he prepares for the upcoming match against Southampton. (Image Source: BBC)
Strategic Decisions Ahead of Southampton Clash
As the team approaches the match with Southampton, Ten Hag’s selection has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike. Surprisingly, Ten Hag has opted to recall Christian Eriksen instead of starting either Casemiro or Ugarte. Eriksen’s last Premier League start ended with a disheartening 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace in May, leading many to question Ten Hag’s judgment.
Despite the criticism surrounding his selection choices, the manager defended Eriksen, stating, “He earned it.” This decision reflects Ten Hag’s broader strategy of utilizing experienced players while balancing the need for new talent in the lineup.
Broader Implications for Manchester United
United’s performance against Southampton will be critical, not just for immediate results, but for the overall morale of the squad. Following the embarrassing defeat to Liverpool, the team needs a solid showing to restore confidence and support Ten Hag’s management. Maintaining a competitive edge across all positions is vital, especially given the intense scrutiny that surrounds a club of Manchester United’s stature.
Ten Hag’s approach focuses on building a robust squad capable of handling the demands of multiple competitions. He made clear that individuals must compete for their positions, stating, “You can’t have a squad where in positions we have only one player who can cover this… you need at least two players in every position.” This perspective demonstrates his commitment to fostering a competitive environment within the team.
Looking Ahead
As the league progresses, Manchester United will face numerous challenges that will test both Ten Hag’s management and the players’ resilience, including navigating their demanding schedule. The outcome of the upcoming match against Southampton is crucial for not only securing points but also for establishing the team’s character moving forward.
The tension in the air reflects the larger narrative surrounding Manchester United this season. With Eriksen back in the mix, and Casemiro and Ugarte looking for redemption, fans will be watching closely to see how Ten Hag’s selections pan out on the pitch.
Ultimately, the stakes remain high for Manchester United. With the pressure mounting, the team’s performance against Southampton will be pivotal in shaping their trajectory for the remainder of the season. Ten Hag will need to navigate these complexities effectively to ensure Manchester United returns to its former glory.
You can find the latest news about Manchester United and other teams in the Premier League by checking out BBC Sport.
