Casemiro has struggled to replicate his early to mid-season form for Manchester United of late – and fans have an interesting theory as to why.
The Brazilian midfielder has been one of United's standout performers for large spells of the season following his much-talked about £70 million summer move from Real Madrid.
He has played 43 times in all competitions under Erik ten Hag and continues to be an important part of their midfield.
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In fact, according to WhoScored, the 31-year-old has made a tackle every 23.8 minutes in the Premier League this season – a remarkable stat that only Fulham's Joao Palhinha can trump.
But you could argue Casemiro's form has dropped of late and on Thursday night, in United's disappointing 2-2 draw against Spurs, the Brazil international made just one successful tackle and one interception.
He also lost possession 15 times, winning just one of four ground duels contested. On top of that, the former Real Madrid midfielder was dribbled past three times throughout.
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A slump in form during the season is, of course, normal. But fans have noticed Casemiro being somewhat guarded in the tackle.
Some, therefore, have concluded that his confidence has dipped because of the two red cards he received against Crystal Palace and Southampton this year.
United fan and YouTuber Mark Goldbridge said: "Casemiro hasn't been the same since he came back. Top sport is about fine margins. He's had two red cards no other player would get in the league. It's clearly impacting his confidence. Well done Refs. Another stain on your crap season."
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A second supporter made a similar point after the Spurs game, saying: "I have no doubt that refs have destroyed Casemiro. He has become afraid to make tackles and his confidence has been ruined. It is a massive problem as his game has been destroyed by these refs."
A third wrote: "Not sure if it's a lack of confidence after his two red cards but Casemiro is a shell of player he was in the mid season period. So timid and ineffective."
A fourth noted: "I can’t be the only one thinking our refs have ruined Casemiro’s confidence. Petrified to put a challenge in since back from suspension," while a fifth added: "Casemiro is just not the same player since his two sendings off. He’s lost his game intensity and confidence."
Casemiro, who also missed United's crucial game against Arsenal in January after picking up his fifth booking of the season, served a four match suspension after being sent off against Southampton.
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Do you think his confidence has dipped after those red cards?
Let us know in the comments.
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Topics: Casemiro, Manchester United, Premier League
