Ahead of the next international break, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has made comments regarding Casemiro’s profile, which Ruben Amorim would agree with.
Since joining Manchester United in 2022, Casemiro has been a prevalent feature in the Red Devils’ side and has often been on the receiving end of criticism.
The Brazilian was a key part of Real Madrid’s starting XI for the best part of a decade, which saw him win five Champions League medals, but he has looked off the pace at times since his move to Manchester.
Recently, under Ruben Amorim in the Premier League, Casemiro has become an important cog in the machine, playing a vital role in the side’s recent positive form.
With two goals in his last two games, the defensive midfielder has received another call-up to the Brazil national side for the next international period. Carlo Ancelotti has since praised the United star’s profile.
Ancelotti praises Casemiro profile
In picking his squad for the November international break, Ancelotti has surprised many by announcing the recall of former Liverpool midfielder Fabinho.
Explaining his decision, via Manchester Evening News, the Italian coach said, “I want to find a profile that fits Casemiro’s characteristics. We have very good midfielders, but with different defensive profiles, and that’s why we called up Fabinho.
“He has the characteristics, the structure, the knowledge of the position and the experience. He is a player who is currently playing and has already played at a very high level in Europe.”
Clearly, Ancelotti agrees with Amorim regarding the importance of a player like Casemiro’s profile, to the extent that he has even brought in a second midfielder with a similar profile.
There have also been reports that, despite not being part of Amorim’s plans when the head coach took charge a year ago, Casemiro could be offered a new contract on lower wages to keep his experience at the club.
Amorim could follow suit
With the Brazilian midfielder demonstrating his importance on both the national and international stages, there could be a lesson to be learnt for Amorim.
Casemiro’s unique skillset and experience have proven vital to the Reds recently, and with them likely to move for a midfielder in the January window, Ancelotti’s comments may have given them some food for thought.
READ MORE: Steve Bruce praises Rúben Amorim for three ‘big calls’ that earned Manchester United £87.5m
Although the Red Devils have been linked with midfielders such as Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson, it may be smarter for them to find a midfielder with a profile closer to that of the 33-year-old.
Casemiro is now in the final year of his contract, and with him now entering his mid-thirties, signing an understudy could be the smart call to help fill the void if the Brazilian departs in the summer.
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