Manchester United’s intense 4–4 draw with Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Monday night provided plenty of entertainment, but it also highlighted the growing issues within Ruben Amorim’s midfield.
At the heart of that discussion was Casemiro, whose performance summed up both the promise and the persistent problems within this United side.
The experienced Brazilian midfielder did manage to get his name on the scoresheet, rising highest to power home a first-half header that briefly gave United control. However, beyond that moment of quality, Casemiro struggled to impose himself consistently.
He frequently left large pockets of space in central areas, allowing Bournemouth to bypass United’s midfield far too easily.
His lack of mobility was exposed on several occasions, and a poorly timed foul conceded in a dangerous position directly contributed to Bournemouth’s third goal of the night.
To compound matters, Casemiro was booked, limiting his ability to play aggressively. With United losing control of the match, Amorim opted to withdraw the 33-year-old just past the hour mark, introducing Kobbie Mainoo in an attempt to restore balance and composure.
Casemiro’s display reflected a wider issue facing Manchester United. While the team can be devastating going forward, they repeatedly fail to dictate the tempo over a full 90 minutes.
Matches often descend into end-to-end chaos, something that Amorim is keen to eradicate if his project is to progress.
United urgently need a midfielder who can calm the game, retain possession under pressure, and bring structure to their play.
United Renew Interest in Ruben Neves
That need has once again pushed Ruben Neves firmly into United’s thinking. Reports earlier in the season indicated that the club were monitoring the Al-Hilal midfielder, and recent developments suggest that interest has intensified.
Neves, who previously excelled in the Premier League with Wolves, is widely respected for his technical quality, intelligent positioning, and ability to control matches from deep.
Across spells with Porto, Wolves, and now Al-Hilal, he has consistently demonstrated composure, leadership, and an eye for both progressive passing and spectacular long-range goals.
Amorim’s Direct Influence
According to reports from Spain, Ruben Amorim has personally urged Manchester United to pursue a move for his fellow Portuguese international.
The pair share a strong professional relationship, and Amorim is believed to see Neves as the ideal solution to United’s midfield imbalance.
Neves is currently entering the final stretch of his lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia, where he earns around £410,000 per week.
Despite the financial rewards, the midfielder is understood to be open to a return to English football, having fond memories of his time at Wolves.
United are keen to explore a January move, though Al-Hilal are reluctant to lose one of their most influential players midway through the season.
As a result, the Red Devils are reportedly confident that if a winter deal proves impossible, Neves could instead arrive in the summer on a free transfer.
