Sources: Casemiro now facing extended spell on Man United sidelines after big development

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Published on:

29 Nov 2023, 1:15 am

Man United midfielder Casemiro could now be kept out of the side long-term by emerging youngster Kobbie Mainoo, sources have told Football Insider.

The Brazil captain, 31, is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury he sustained in the League Cup loss against Newcastle earlier this month.

That injury allowed Mainoo to make his first Premier League start in the 3-0 win over Everton on Sunday (26 November) - and the 18-year-old made a big impression on manager Erik ten Hag.

Erik ten Hag on the attention Kobbie Mainoo is getting: "Very pleased with the performance, but it's just one performance, you have to do it on a consistent basis. Kobbie is strong and mature, and we're confident. You're only as good as your last game." #mufc
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) November 28, 2023

It is believed that the Dutch manager will hand Mainoo an extended opportunity in the team and that will have major ramifications for Casemiro.

A well-placed source told Football Insider that United are ready to let the Brazil international leave next summer – and the 31-year-old himself is ready to go.

Speaking before United's next game against Galatasaray on Wednesday (29 November), Ten Hag confirmed he was "very pleased" with the youngster's display.

He said he was "confident" that Mainoo could replicate that level consistently and hinted at his potential involvement against the Turkish giants.

The 18-year-old impressed in pre-season and was set for a big role in the United side before picking up an early-season injury.

Mainoo, who is under contract until June 2027, can play both in defensive and attacking midfield.

He has made just four total appearances for the Red Devils - with his only previous start coming in the League Cup against Charlton last season.

Meanwhile, Casemiro has been widely linked with a potential Old Trafford exit in the coming transfer windows - despite only joining for a reported £70million last year (2022).

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (28 November) that the £300,000-a-week+ Man United midfielder will quit the club next year - most likely in the summer.

In other news, Man United mega earner set for major new role.

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