John Obi Mikel has strongly criticized Ruben Amorim’s decision to play both Christian Eriksen and Casemiro in midfield during Manchester United’s loss to Newcastle, labeling it a “massive, massive mistake” that should never happen again.
The two 32-year-olds were overrun in midfield as Newcastle handed United their fourth consecutive defeat on Monday.
The game saw K, with Joshua Zirkzee being substituted for Kobbie Mainoo just 33 minutes into the match, but by that point, the damage had already been done. Goals from Alexander Isak and Joelinton put the Magpies in control, securing all three points early on.
This defeat leaves United sitting in 14th place and marks their worst run of form since 1930, when they were relegated to the second tier. Amorim admitted it was embarrassing to be questioned about the prospect of a relegation battle during his post-match press conference.
Obi Mikel, speaking on the Obi One Podcast, was particularly critical of the midfield pairing. “There’s no way, and I hope this never happens again, that you see Casemiro and Eriksen play in the midfield for Manchester United,” the former Chelsea midfielder said.
“If you’re a player in your 30s, you need someone younger beside you to cover the ground because you just can’t do it anymore.”
He continued, “When you have those two in midfield, who’s going to help who? Who’s going to run for who? For me, it’s a massive mistake—it’s awful to watch.”
Obi Mikel also pointed out that Casemiro, despite his storied career, will continue to struggle without more protection in midfield. “Casemiro is a fantastic player, but when your legs are gone, they’re gone. In the Premier League, you’ll get found out.”
His comments echo those of Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville, who shared similar thoughts on playing with aging teammates: “The last thing you want in your thirties is another player in his thirties alongside you. You need someone energetic to make up for what you lack.”
With United struggling, the question arises: Could they be dragged into a relegation fight this season?