Man Utd news: Casemiro equals United tackle record against Man City

At times this season, it has appeared Casemiro’s Manchester United career would not last beyond the next transfer window.

In September – towards the end of Erik ten Hag’s reign – he was substituted at half-time of the 3-0 home loss to Liverpool and heavy criticism followed. The Brazil international’s wife came to his defence and reminded people of his stellar, trophy-laden career.

However, despite an inauspicious start under Ruben Amorim, Casemiro has re-established himself in United’s starting XI.

The 33-year-old played the full 90 minutes in the draw with Arsenal on 9 March and started both legs of the Europa League last-16 victory over Real Sociedad.

He started last week’s defeat at Nottingham Forest and completed the full 90 minutes in Sunday’s goalless Manchester derby.

Against Manchester City, Casemiro made 11 tackles – the joint-most ever made by a United player in a Premier League match.

“Amid all the noise – on and off the pitch – around yesterday’s Manchester derby, it was interesting to note Casemiro turned in another effective midfield display,” BBC chief football news reporter Simon Stone wrote about his showing.

“Almost without anyone noticing, the former Real Madrid star has eased his way back into Amorim’s team.”

On Casemiro, Amorim said: “If you improve what we ask of them, they have the opportunity. If they play well, they continue to play.

“That was the situation for Casemiro. The credit is all [with] the player. He is our player and will continue to be our player.”

Only Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot had more than Casemiro’s 60 touches for United in the derby – with his touch map showing his impact all across the pitch.

Despite his age and decline in mobility, this is still a five-time Champions League winner with 75 appearances for Brazil. If Amorim can avoid him becoming isolated and exposed in midfield, then he can still perform impressively in the biggest of games.

Casemiro still has a year left on a massive contract and has already stated his intention to remain at United for another season.

United fans, have recent performances convinced you that that Casemiro should stay during a rebuild this summer?

Let us know