Erik ten Hag reaffirms faith in Casemiro

By Robert Mutasi 

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has come out full of support for Brazilian midfielder Casemiro after the player's recent poor form. 

The Red Devils boss allayed fears regarding the 31-year-old recent form this season and instead repeated the fact that the experienced midfielder remains an important factor in his plans during a press conference.

We definitely need Casemiro and trust him, for sure," said Ten Hag. "Everyone can have a bad day at the office… but he is experienced, and he knows how to deal with a bad game."

Casemiro, who signed for Old Trafford in 2022 from Real Madrid, has come under criticism from a section of supporters and pundits alike after some surprisingly underwhelming performances this campaign. 

The Brazilian international sometimes failed to impose his characteristic control in midfield, giving rise to speculation whether age or fatigue might finally catch up with him. 

On the other hand, Ten Hag was quick to ward off suspicion that the best years of his career were now behind him, claiming that loss of form temporarily is a given thing in every long football career.

"You have highs and lows in your life and in football… Casemiro knows how to deal with it, and we trust him," Ten Hag added. 

His comments reflect deep belief in Casemiro's ability for a rebound and delivery, citing the veteran's wealth of experience from his trophy-laden years at Real Madrid, where he won five UEFA Champions League titles.

Dutch manager persisted on his part that players need to keep up the confidence even when things are not going well. 

"Everybody has periods when things don't go so well in football. That's the turning point for great players, how they respond, and in his career so far Casemiro has shown he knows how to handle it."

He was very instrumental in grounding this team's midfield last season, helping the club win the Carabao Cup besides guiding them to a top-four finish in the Premier League. 

His reading of the game, breakup of play, and solidity in defense has been central to United's resurgence under Ten Hag.

This would remind not only the player but also the squad that Casemiro remains important for United going into the important stretch of the season. 

Indeed, with his pedigree and experience, he is that figure that Ten Hag-and the United supporters-are banking on getting the team past such sticky situations.