CASEMIRO has had a slow start to the season for Manchester United.
And one stat particularly illustrates his struggles.
The Brazilian arrived at Old Trafford as a star £70million acquisition from Real Madrid last year.
He helped to solidify the Red Devils’ midfield as Erik ten Hag’s side came third and won the League Cup.
So far this season, however, the Brazil captain hasn’t quite lived up to his previous performances.
According to the Mail, Casemiro is being dribbled past more than double the amount that he was during his final season at Real Madrid.
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The 31-year-old has been beaten 2.8 times per match so far this term, compared to 1.3 times at Real Madrid in 2021-22.
Last season he was beaten 2.1 times per game, also an increase on his final tally in Madrid.
Casemiro’s number of tackles is also down from last season at 2.8 per match, compared to a previous 3.7.
He is set to be joined in midfield by new signing Sofyan Amrabat.
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The Moroccan arrived at United on loan from Fiorentina on deadline day last month.
Erik ten Hag will hope that Amrabat’s arrival can help improve Casemiro’s fortunes.
The United new-boy covered more ground than any other player at last year’s World Cup.
And his mobility could potentially help Casemiro get back to what he’s best at.
Last season in Serie A, Amrabat’s passing ability was also a key asset.
He boasted an 88.8 per cent pass completion rate and made 7.21 progressive passes per match – among the best in the Italian top flight in both categories.
Defensively he made 1.92 tackles per game, 0.9 interceptions and 0.85 clearances.
Casemiro has played every minute of the season so far, and was partnered by Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay against Brighton on Saturday.
After the 3-1 defeat, the latter was furiously confronted in the dressing room by captain Bruno Fernandes.
The loss saw United slip to 13th in the early Premier League table, having only collected six points.
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Tonight they face a tough Champions League assignment, facing Bayern Munich at Allianz Arena.
They return to Premier League action on Saturday night with a trip to Burnley.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
