Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has clarified his decision to substitute midfielder Casemiro during his side's narrow 1-0 Premier League victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Boxing Day.
The Substitution That Raised Eyebrows
Patrick Dorgu's 24th-minute volley proved to be the match-winner, lifting United to fifth in the table. However, the major talking point emerged in the 61st minute when Amorim replaced the experienced Brazilian, Casemiro, with defender Leny Yoro. The change saw Casemiro, who had started alongside Manuel Ugarte in the absence of the injured Bruno Fernandes, point to himself in apparent disbelief as his number was held aloft.
Amorim's Tactical Reasoning
Speaking after the final whistle, Amorim explained his thinking behind the surprising early withdrawal. 'In that moment I did not want to take [Matheus] Cunha off because he’s the only guy who can allow us to breathe and I put him in a No.10,' the United boss stated.
He elaborated further on the midfield dynamic, saying, 'Jack [Fletcher] was fresh to continue, Manu [Ugarte] was fresher than Casemiro. We took a chance because they were making a lot of corner runs and I feel he was going to struggle in that moment.' The substitution was part of a defensive reshuffle as United weathered a second-half onslaught from Newcastle, aided by a solid defensive display and goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Pundit Reaction and Analysis
The decision drew an immediate and strong reaction from the commentary box. Former Manchester United defender and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville expressed his shock live on air. 'He [Casemiro] can’t believe it. I’m surprised, I am really surprised,' Neville said.
Neville had anticipated a different change, suggesting Joshua Zirkzee might have come on for Ugarte with Fletcher dropping deeper. 'That is a surprise, I’m shocked... I’d be surprised if this goes well in the next half hour because they look all at sea now,' he added, questioning the new shape of the team.
Ultimately, the tactical gamble paid off for Amorim, with his side holding on for a crucial three points that bolster their top-five position as the busy festive fixture schedule continues.
