Everton manager Sean Dyche has delivered a scathing assessment of Casemiro's defensive capabilities following Manchester United's embarrassing 4-0 thrashing by Crystal Palace on Monday night.
The Brazilian midfielder, deployed as an emergency centre-back due to United's injury crisis, endured a torrid evening at Selhurst Park that prompted Dyche's brutally honest analysis.
'You Can't Defend Like That' - Dyche's Damning Verdict
Speaking on The Overlap, Dyche didn't hold back in his criticism of the former Real Madrid star's defensive fundamentals. "If you watch Casemiro for the goal, he goes to ground and makes a tackle - you can't do that as a centre-back, particularly not in the Premier League," the Everton boss stated.
Dyche emphasised the fundamental differences between midfield and defensive roles, highlighting how Casemiro's instincts betrayed him. "He's a world-class midfielder, but he's not a world-class centre-back. The habits are different - you have to stay on your feet, you have to delay, you have to show people away from goal."
A Night of Humiliation at Selhurst Park
United's defensive frailties were exposed repeatedly by an energetic Palace side, with Michael Olise and Jean-Philippe Mateta running riot against a makeshift backline. The performance raised serious questions about United's recruitment strategy and injury management.
Casemiro's evening went from bad to worse when he was skinned by Daniel Munoz in the build-up to Palace's fourth goal, a moment that perfectly encapsulated United's defensive disarray.
What Next for Ten Hag and Manchester United?
The heavy defeat leaves Erik ten Hag under increasing pressure, with United facing the very real possibility of missing out on European football entirely next season. The Dutch manager now has just three Premier League games to salvage something from a disastrous campaign.
Dyche's comments highlight the broader structural issues at Old Trafford, where expensive signings are being deployed out of position to cover for an unprecedented injury crisis.
As United's season continues to unravel, analysis from experienced Premier League operators like Dyche serves as a stark reminder of how far the fallen giants have to climb to regain their former status.
