Wayne Rooney pulls no punches as Manchester United star branded ‘naive’ vs Chelsea

After the game, former United player Wayne Rooney had a verbal hit against Casemiro for his red card. He argued that United were controlling the game, and the Brazilian made the game uncomfortable for his side with that rash tackle. United could have squandered the win, which could have resulted in a draw. The former United player felt that Amnorim’s team ahd the control until Casemiro received that red card. Ruben Amorim must have felt the same, as Casemiro’s absence left him under further scrutiny during a period when results have been inconsistent. Rio Ferdinand was also not happy with Casemiro’s late challenge, but he called the red card harsh.

“It’s silly, it’s naïve for such an experienced player. Manchester United have full control of the game, and if you look at that first foul, there is no need for him to go into that tackle when Chelsea have ten men. And yeah, the conditions are wet and slippery, but that is a silly booking. 

“I felt then that Ruben might have taken him out of the game because you always fear that this could happen, and he goes and gets a second yellow card. It’s harsh because he wins the ball, but you can see his arms pulling him [Andrey Santos] down. You don’t expect that from such an experienced player, and that could have cost Manchester United today. 

“I think that’s the only way he knows how to play. He’s passionate, he’s front-footed and he likes to put his foot in and make tackles but I think today he could have held his composure a little bit better than he did.”

Via: Match of the Day (h/t Metro)

The importance of Casemiro despite the mistake

The midfielder is naturally aggressive and thrives on the edge, yet any sliding challenge from behind gives the referee control, and this time the decision went against Casemiro. That is the gamble defensive midfielders must take, but here he tipped the balance against his own side. Despite criticism, the 33-year-old remains vital for Manchester United, breaking up play, shielding the defence, and freeing Bruno Fernandes and others to influence the game.

His impact was clear in last season’s Europa League run, where he provided stability and even scored important goals. One costly mistake does not erase that value, though fans rightly expect greater discipline from someone of his experience. Meanwhile, United have been looking for defensive midfielders. The Brazilian is past his prime, and reports reveal that he is considering leaving the club for free next summer. Meanwhile, this win, however, spares Ruben Amorim from deeper pressure, and fans can still take pride in the resilience shown after Casemiro’s dismissal, as United made the evening harder than necessary but still found the resolve to finish the job.