Erik ten Hag inadvertently upset Manchester United star Casemiro after a slip of the tongue while explaining his decision to drop the midfielder.
Casemiro had a stellar debut season in 2022-23, contributing significantly to United’s Carabao Cup triumph following his £70 million transfer from Real Madrid. However, his form dipped during the following season, leading to multiple half-time substitutions and missing the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Despite keeping his job after that Wembley victory, Ten Hag faces mounting pressure as United currently sits in 14th place in the Premier League. The Dutchman has been criticized for his communication style, described as “blunt and direct” by sources close to the club.
Last season, his use of English created a misunderstanding with Casemiro. According to ESPN, Ten Hag referred to dropping the Brazilian for “football reasons,” which angered him. He intended to convey “tactical reasons,” but the phrasing suggested a criticism of Casemiro as a player, unintentionally offending the multiple Champions League winner.
Casemiro started the first two matches of the current season but was replaced at half-time against Liverpool in September due to a poor performance. He has since been sidelined in the league, with the club bringing in Uruguay international Manuel Ugarte.
