Manchester United's midfield crisis has sparked a fiery debate between two of football's most outspoken pundits, with Rio Ferdinand and Jamie Carragher clashing over Casemiro's future at Old Trafford.
The Palace Performance That Started It All
Following Manchester United's dismal 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, Jamie Carragher didn't hold back in his assessment of the Brazilian midfielder. "I said at the start of the season with Casemiro, knowing the Manchester United midfield and the way they play, he should have been the first one out of the door," Carragher stated emphatically on Sky Sports.
The former Liverpool defender went even further, suggesting the 32-year-old's elite career was effectively over: "He's been a great player, but I'm thinking, why are Manchester United buying a 30-year-old for £60-70m? That's the problem. I always felt his legs would go and now they have gone. He is struggling."
Ferdinand Fights Back for Former Club
Rio Ferdinand, the Manchester United legend, immediately sprang to Casemiro's defence during their heated exchange. While acknowledging the midfielder's recent struggles, Ferdinand argued the problems run deeper than one player.
"I agree with a lot of what you said, but I think he's suffering from what's around him," Ferdinand countered. "There's no structure, there's no guidance, there's no protection around him. He's been left exposed, he's been left isolated."
Carragher's Brutal Verdict
Carragher remained unmoved, delivering his most cutting assessment yet: "I said six months ago that Casemiro should have been the first one out of the door. He's been a great player, but his legs have gone. He should know himself, as a great player, that it's time to call it a day and move."
The Sky Sports pundit suggested Casemiro should consider following Cristiano Ronaldo to the Saudi Pro League, stating bluntly: "He should be going to Saudi Arabia. That should be his last game for Manchester United in the Premier League."
What Next for Manchester United's Midfield?
The explosive debate highlights the growing concerns about Manchester United's midfield reconstruction. With new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe watching from the stands during the Palace humiliation, the pressure is mounting for significant summer changes.
As both pundits agreed, the fundamental issue remains United's transfer strategy and whether they can build a cohesive midfield unit capable of competing at the highest level. The Casemiro conundrum symbolizes the broader challenges facing Erik ten Hag's squad as they prepare for a crucial summer rebuild.
