Manchester United are set to miss Casemiro in the rollercoaster FA Cup quarterfinal matchup against Liverpool at Old Trafford.
In a major blow to the Red Devils, Brazil football confederation, the apex body governing football administration in Brazil, have confirmed Casemiro has been delisted from Brazil’s squad for March international friendlies due to injury.
A statement by the football governing body affirming the removal of the Man United star reads;
”Brazil national team manager Dorivial Junior has removed Casemiro from Brazil squad for March international friendlies against England and Spain.
“Porto striker Pepe has been called up to replace after Brazil medical established Casemiro, and 13 other players won’t be available for the international break due to injuries.”
Casemiro’s injury blow is a major setback to the player and Manchester United as well. It will be the second time he will spend time on the sidelines after missing almost 16 weeks of action for the club from October 2023 to January 2024 due to injury.
The midfield sensation picked up his last injury while he was on international duty with Brazil national team and was set to return to gear with Manchester United after his lengthy injury layoff.
Also, it is a major setback to United, who had hoped to have the veteran playmaker lead the pack at the midfield as the club trade tackles with arch-domestic rivals Liverpool in the FA Cup.
In his squad update ahead of the Liverpool game, Erik ten Hag made no mention of Casemiro’s injury scare, hence the statement by Brazil football authorities is more of a surprise.
Casemiro will join Man United’s injury list with the likes of Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Lisandro Martinez on the list.
Erik ten Hag will likely start Mason Mount, who is back from his lengthy injury layoff, against Liverpool in the place of Casemiro.
Meanwhile, United are yet to confirm update on the Brazilian’s latest injury report wit hopes it will not be another season-ending lengthy layoff.
