INEOS could make shock transfer U-turn: Amorim admits changing tactics to help Man Utd star shine

Manchester United are just one step away from a place in the UEFA Europa League final after a commanding win over Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night.

The Red Devils have shown real grit in their recent triumphs over Lyon and Athletic, with midfield general Casemiro leading the charge with vintage performances.

Manager Ruben Amorim admitted last week that Casemiro has changed his manager’s mind.

He praised the Brazilian international again ahead of the Premier League clash with Brentford.

He said (via ManUtd.com): “I think he (Casemiro) has improved a lot also.

“You can see not the way he plays but the way he runs. You can see it, we have the data to show him where he worked really hard.

“He is a very good example. Even Toby (Collyer) sometimes was playing in front of him and now it is hard to take Casemiro.

“Then we understood that he cannot jump all the time pressing high.

“We need to let him understand and sometimes it is better to put three defenders and let him be the fourth defender and put the wing-backs pressing high.”

Casemiro’s turnaround is hard to ignore

The 33-year-old looked destined for a summer exit after falling down the pecking order under Amorim.

He looked out of sorts in the 3-4-2-1 shape, often overrun in midfield and unable to stem opposition attacks.

It has been a splendid turnaround for the midfield enforcer over the last few weeks.

When United were 2-4 down in extra time against Lyon, Casemiro won a penalty and earned two assists for late goals from Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire.

He got the Red Devils going against Athletic with a fantastic header from Maguire’s cross.

With Manuel Ugarte off the pace early on, Casemiro took it upon himself to do the job of two midfielders.

When Victor Lindelof lost the ball to Nico Williams in a dangerous area, Casemiro raced back to produce a crucial interception, denying a near-certain goal.

Amorim and his team have adapted their tactics to protect Casemiro’s legs while still unlocking his elite qualities.

He remains a huge aerial threat and continues to pick smart forward passes from deep.

INEOS are reportedly eager to move him on due to his staggering £350,000-a-week wages, but his recent resurgence might force a rethink.

Despite shining in Europe, there are clear reservations over his performances in the Premier League.

However, his resurgence has left a lasting impression on Amorim.

If the manager insists on keeping him, INEOS may have no choice but to back his call.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .