Arsenal take on Manchester United at the Emirates and will be looking to exploit the absence of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro but former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has warned the Gunners of the danger Fred and McTominay can pose in the middle of the park.
As Arsenal prepare to take on Manchester United in a highly-anticipated match, the absence of United’s star midfielder Casemiro looms large.
The Brazilian, who joined United in the summer, has been a key player in the team’s resurgence under manager Erik Ten Hag. However, due to suspension, he will be unable to take the field against Arsenal.
While some analysts believe this makes the game a more favorable match-up for the Gunners, former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp argues that United have the depth to replace Casemiro with another talented player.
Writing on The Sun he said “Whoever comes in for Casemiro — more than likely Fred or Scott McTominay — has got to keep a lid on Martin Odegaard and that’s easier said than done.
“But although people take the mickey out of Fred, you’re talking about a man who regularly gets into the Brazil side and he’s no mug, believe me. And neither is McTominay.
“Remember a few years ago, in the games United were without Roy Keane and Nicky Butt would come into the side?”
Indeed, in the reverse fixture earlier this season, United was able to secure a victory against Arsenal without Casemiro in the lineup.
Despite the potential loss of Casemiro, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta knows that beating United will be no easy task.
The Red Devils have a wealth of talent and the Gunners must be fully focused and prepared for a difficult match. As Arteta stated, “Beating United will not be easy whether Casemiro plays or not and the Gunners must be focused on preparing to win against a very tough side.”
It will be important for Arsenal to be ready to challenge the best version of Manchester United that can be put out.
The match is expected to be an exciting encounter, and fans are eagerly looking forward to it.