Manchester United icons Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane have slammed Casemiro’s performance in the team’s crucial 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, singling out the Brazilian midfielder’s “lazy” defending as a key factor in the loss.
Casemiro, playing out of position at centre-back, failed to track back, allowing Kai Havertz to break through and set up the winning goal for Leandro Trossard.
Manchester United legends Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane didn’t hold back in their criticism of Casemiro after his defensive blunder led to Arsenal’s winning goal in their 1-0 victory at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian midfielder, filling in as a centre-back due to United’s injury problems, failed to keep up with the defensive line, allowing Kai Havertz to break through and set up Leandro Trossard for the decisive goal.
Rooney, United’s all-time leading scorer, didn’t mince words, stating, “It’s lazy. He’s lazy. The rest of his teammates have pushed out and they get caught. He has to get out.” He emphasized the importance of defenders pushing up in unison, regardless of their usual position, to avoid leaving opponents onside.
Keane, known for his no-nonsense approach, echoed Rooney’s sentiments, stating, “Casemiro cannot play in the Premier League at centre half. Whatever shortcomings you have, you can’t coach pace.” He pointed to Casemiro’s lack of speed and awareness as key factors in the goal, highlighting the “laziness” that led to the defensive breakdown.
Both former Manchester United players agreed that Casemiro’s mistake was the defining moment of the match, ultimately costing their former team a crucial result in the title race.
This isn’t the first time Casemiro has faced criticism for his defensive performances, as he struggled in the same role during United’s 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace the previous week.