Ruben Amorim made his feelings clear. (Image: Getty)
Ruben Amorim may as well have told Casemiro to leave during Thursday’s 2-1 win against Rangers in the Europa League. The 32-year-old midfielder now appears to be as low as fifth in Amorim’s pecking order after the emergence of Toby Collyer.
Casemiro has started just four games since the Portuguese tactician took charge, sparking speculation about his future.
There reportedly has been interest from the Saudi Pro League and the MLS this month, but no suitable offers have landed at United’s desk.
Casemiro is the Red Devils’ top earner, pocketing a staggering £350,000 per week on the contract he signed in 2022, which expires next year.
Ten Hag sanctioned his £70million arrival from Real Madrid after missing out on his top target in his first summer, Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.
While Casemiro enjoyed an impressive maiden season at Old Trafford, he has since endured a steep decline and has struggled to meet Amorim’s demands.
Supporters have aired frustration at why Alejandro Garnacho appears to be on the chopping block to raise funds while Casemiro rots on the United bench.
And the five-time Champions League winner’s prospects of minutes for the remainder of the season now look more bleak than ever before.
Casemiro was an unused substitute against Rangers. (Image: Getty)
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Collyer made his first European start alongside in midfield against Rangers at Old Trafford and, for the most part, caught the eye.
The 21-year-old became the first United midfielder on record to complete over 50 passes on their European home debut, maintaining a 94 per cent accuracy.
“It’s great. I think these are the nights you dream of playing as a kid and now as well, Collyer told MUTV after the final whistle.
“It’s great experience for me, great exposure and, with the players around me, they helped me through the game. So I think I was able to show some of the qualities I possess.”
He didn’t look out of place and represented a much more suited fit to Amorim’s demanding 3-4-3 system than Casemiro has.
Christian Eriksen also impressed before Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte entered the pitch in the second half to offer stability and energy.
Casemiro remained an unused substitute for the 10th time since Amorim took charge – which speaks volumes about where he fits in his plans.
If the United No. 18 doesn’t leave before the February 3 transfer deadline, a summer departure is undoubtedly on the agenda.