Jamie Redknapp has named the Manchester United player who should have departed during the January transfer window.
Despite Ruben Amorim offloading Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia on loan, Redknapp was surprised to see Casemiro remain at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian, a five-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, has struggled to adapt under Amorim and has seen his playing time drastically reduced since the manager’s arrival in November.
Casemiro was linked with a move to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr last month, with former United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also rumored to be interested in bringing him to Fenerbahce. However, the 32-year-old stayed put and was handed a rare start on Sunday as an injury-hit United faced Tottenham.
Speaking ahead of the match, Redknapp told Sky Sports:
“The last time Casemiro played in the Premier League was against Newcastle, and I think he was taken off at half-time. He was struggling, and he and Christian Eriksen were getting overrun.
“I thought he might leave in January he’s found it difficult at United. He’s been a fantastic midfielder over the years, but the Premier League is tough, and it’s fast.
“Today, he’s going to have to make sure he moves his feet well and doesn’t dive into challenges. He needs to rely on all of his experience.”
Amorim appeared to hint that Casemiro no longer fits into his plans, suggesting that the veteran lacks the intensity required for his high-energy system.
“We understand that Casemiro has other qualities,” Amorim said.
“He’s intelligent, reads the game well, and anticipates where the ball will fall. But the Premier League is intense, and we need players who can match that. Sometimes, those differences in characteristics dictate who plays.
“We all know Casemiro’s quality and what he has achieved, but it’s just a matter of team dynamics and the style of play I want.”
Despite his lack of minutes, Amorim was forced to start Casemiro against Tottenham due to several absences in the squad.
United legend Rio Ferdinand echoed Redknapp’s sentiments, suggesting Casemiro should have left in January rather than sit on the bench.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said:
“Is Casemiro happy being on the bench? I don’t think so. Throughout his career, he’s never been a substitute. If the right offer had come in, I don’t think it would have been a difficult decision.
“If he wants to go and play regularly, who are we to stop him at this stage of his career?”
With the season entering its final stretch, it remains to be seen whether Casemiro can fight his way back into Amorim’s plans or if his exit is simply delayed until the summer.