Erik ten Hag falls out with Manchester United superstar after FA Cup final snub: Reports
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag and Casemiro have reportedly clashed after the Dutch coach dropped the Brazilian star in the FA Cup final. The veteran midfielder was removed from the squad at the last minute before his side beat Manchester City.
GOAL Brasil reports that Casemiro was upset after Ten Hag dropped him from the starting XI. Sofyan Amrabat started in his preferred midfield role with Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez partnering in defense.
Manchester United beat Manchester City 2-1 at Wembley courtesy of goals from Alejandro Garnacho (30') and Kobbie Mainoo (39'). The Cityzens hit back through Jeremy Doku (87') but the Red Devils somewhat surprisingly won the FA Cup.
Casemiro, 32, joined in with the post-match celebrations and many assumed he'd been injured. Several reports claimed he was withdrawn from the squad due to a 'late injury issue'.
The 75-cap Brazil international's future has been the subject of speculation amid a disappointing season. Al Ahli and Al Qadisiya are eager to bring him to the Saudi Pro League this summer. Reports also claim Al-Nassr are interested in signing and reuniting him with longtime teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Casemiro recently played as a makeshift centre-back due to an injury crisis. He's made 32 appearances across competitions, posting five goals and three assists.
The five-time UEFA Champions League winner joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in August 2022 for £70 million. Ten Hag described him as 'the cement between the stones' when he arrived but he could be set to depart this summer.
Casemiro celebrates Manchester United's FA Cup final win vs Manchester City with social media post
Casemiro was all smiles after Manchester United won the FA Cup to end a frustrating season on a high. The Brazilian posed for a photo with the famous trophy and posted it on his Instagram account:
"The FA Cup Champions!!!!"
The Selecao star played his role in guiding the Red Devils to Wembley as he made three appearances. He scored the winner in a 1-0 victory against Nottingham Forest (February 28).
The FA Cup is the second trophy Casemiro has won in as many years since joining United. He was the hero for Ten Hag's side as they won the Carabao Cup last season beating Newcastle United 2-1 in the final. He opened the scoring at Wembley with a superb header.