Ruben Amorim’s midfield dilemma: Casemiro and Eriksen expose Manchester United’s cracks
An away 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town was Ruben Amorim’s welcome to the Premier League.
The new Manchester United manager received criticism over his choice to field certain players who negatively impacted the Red Devils’ performance on Sunday afternoon.
Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo examines key concerns from Amorim’s highly-anticipated managerial debut at Manchester United.
A tough first outing
Ruben Amorim’s managerial debut for Manchester United brought both excitement and frustration as fans eagerly anticipated a fresh start.
The game against Ipswich began with promise, with Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes combining brilliantly to set up Marcus Rashford’s opening goal within two minutes.
However, the rest of the match exposed lingering issues, particularly in midfield, where the pairing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen drew heavy criticism.
Amorim’s decision to start the experienced duo surprised many, especially with younger talents like Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte available on the bench.
The midfield pairing struggled to provide fluidity or intensity, leading to a lack of cohesion between defence and attack.
Ipswich, despite their newly-promoted status, looked far more composed and dynamic in the centre of the park, often bypassing the static and uninspired United midfield.
READ MORE: Man Utd news: Red Devils draw 1-1 with Ipswich in Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge
The ageing factor
Eriksen, celebrated for his passing ability, failed to deliver. Against Ipswich, he didn’t register a single key pass and frequently lost possession, frustrating fans and likely Amorim, who values precision and control in his players.
Meanwhile, Casemiro, typically a midfield anchor, had a game to forget. With a mere 71% passing accuracy and a sluggish defensive presence, he was dribbled past twice and left Omari Hutchinson free to score Ipswich’s equaliser.
The pairing's lack of mobility and energy stood in stark contrast to the demands of Amorim’s high-intensity style.
Alan Shearer echoed these concerns on The Rest is Football podcast, pointing out the inherent limitations of relying on Casemiro and Eriksen in such a system.
"It would be nigh on impossible for those two to do what he wants in terms of the press, the high energy, and the running," Shearer remarked.
Casemiro, who marked his 100th appearance for United, has struggled to maintain the form that once made him a standout at Real Madrid.
Subbed off in the 56th minute for Manuel Ugarte, the difference was immediate. Ugarte’s energy and tactical awareness injected life into United’s midfield, highlighting the stark contrast in performance levels.
Eriksen fared no better, completing only 80% of his passes and losing the ball 10 times.
Desperate for change
The duo’s performance raises questions about their long-term viability under Amorim’s leadership.
With a combined age of 64 and weekly wages totalling £500,000, both players represent a significant financial and tactical challenge for United.
Many fans are already calling for a January overhaul, suggesting the club move on from the ageing midfielders to make way for younger, more dynamic players better suited to Amorim’s philosophy.
For Amorim to succeed at United, the midfield conundrum must be addressed.
As seen in Ipswich’s dominance and Ugarte’s cameo, the solution likely lies in embracing youth and energy over experience that no longer meets the Premier League’s demands.
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