3 players who could replace Casemiro at Manchester United
By Alec Hughes
Kobbie Mainoo (18)
In Kobbie Mainoo, Manchester United have their own potential superstar who could ably deputise for Casemiro. Although his combined total of first team minutes comes to fewer than 90, he is a player that excites Red Devils fans. He impressed in preseason friendly outings before an untimely injury curtailed his progress. The youngster has recently returned to the first team fold but has yet to play any minutes this season. Having played his youth team football in a more advanced midfield role, Mainoo is now being viewed as a legitimate option in holding midfield. In the preseason he showed a great ability to take the ball in midfield and advance it either through progressive passes or dribbles.
Red Devil Armada’s Verdict:
Despite Bruno Fernandes’ recommendations to bring João Neves to Manchester, his fee would likely be huge and would be too risky for a player of such limited experience. The tradition at Manchester United of promoting from within is something that supporters cherish. The club has named an academy graduate in every squad for the last 86 years.
Kobbie Mainoo should be given an opportunity to prove himself over the next couple of seasons and would benefit from playing alongside Casemiro. He is probably ready for game time but not ready to replace Casemiro full time just yet. If a deal can be done to bring Douglas Luiz to Old Trafford for a reasonable price it should be seen as a priority. This would allow Erik ten Hag to manage Kobbie Mainoo’s game time carefully which will hopefully see the Red Devils’ most exciting prospect flourish in the not so distant future.