I don’t know what ETH saw in him to call him magnificent because he’s the most inefficient player I have seen. He’s always wasting opportunities and he’s not ready to improve” – Ruben Amorim appears prepared to offload a Manchester United star earning £10.5 million annually, a player previously praised by Erik ten Hag as “magnificent.” The decision signals Amorim’s intent to reshape the squad, prioritizing his tactical vision over legacy performances.
Incoming Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly planning to make a bold squad overhaul, starting with the potential sale of a high-profile player in January. According to recent reports, Amorim has already identified Brazilian midfielder Casemiro as one of the players he is prepared to let go.
### Amorim Takes the Helm at Old Trafford
Following Ruud van Nistelrooy’s brief interim stint, Amorim officially assumed managerial duties at Manchester United this week. The Portuguese tactician faces a challenging start, with United currently sitting in 13th place in the Premier League. Upcoming fixtures include a tough debut against Ipswich Town, followed by matches against Arsenal and Manchester City.
Amorim is expected to implement a new tactical system, likely transitioning to a back-three formation that he successfully utilized at Sporting CP. While his strategy could benefit players like Manuel Ugarte, it raises questions about the roles of stars such as Mason Mount and Alejandro Garnacho.
### Casemiro’s Future in Doubt
Spanish sources suggest that Amorim is ready to part ways with Casemiro, the 32-year-old midfielder, in the January transfer window. Once praised as “magnificent” by former United manager Erik ten Hag for his positioning and passing abilities, Casemiro has struggled to replicate his best form at Old Trafford over the past year.
Despite his contributions, the Brazilian remains one of United’s highest earners, pocketing £350,000 per week (£10.5 million annually). With only 18 months left on his contract, United is reportedly eager to cut costs and recover some of the £60 million spent to bring him from Real Madrid in 2022.
### Strategic Shift and Financial Considerations
Amorim’s decision reflects a shift in priorities as he aims to rebuild the squad while managing financial constraints. Although United may not secure a significant transfer fee for Casemiro, offloading his wages could provide much-needed flexibility for the January transfer window.
As Amorim prepares for his first major test as United manager, all eyes will be on how his decisions reshape the team’s performance and future prospects.
Ruben Amorim’s reported willingness to sell Casemiro highlights the significant changes Manchester United may undergo under his leadership. Casemiro, a marquee signing who initially brought stability to United’s midfield, has recently struggled to meet expectations, and his high wages make him a logical candidate for a potential departure. Amorim’s pragmatic approach suggests he’s focused on balancing financial sustainability with a tactical overhaul.
The shift to a back-three formation, a hallmark of Amorim’s success at Sporting CP, could redefine roles across the squad. Players like Manuel Ugarte, who fits well into such systems, may thrive, but the adaptability of others like Mason Mount and Alejandro Garnacho will be crucial. Amorim’s strategy will also dictate the profile of replacements for departing players, potentially prioritizing younger, versatile talents.
If Casemiro does leave, it will be a bittersweet moment for United fans. While his contributions cannot be understated, this could mark a necessary step in reshaping the squad for long-term success. The January transfer window will serve as a litmus test for Amorim’s vision and Manchester United’s commitment to a new direction.
