Manchester United star did not want to play any part in FA Cup final after Ten Hag benched him
A key Manchester United player did not wish to be a part of the title-winning FA Cup squad REUTERS/David Klein
Casemiro is believed to have told Erik ten Hag that he did not wish to be a part of the squad that fought the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley.
While supporters of rival clubs who failed to win a trophy this season may be poking fun at Manchester United for their FA Cup triumph, the Red Devils themselves are elated beyond measure.
In what was supposed to be their worst season in the modern era, Erik ten Hag and company succeeded in securing a trophy as well as European football for next campaign. Most impressively, they achieved this feat by beating a powerful Manchester City squad led by a top-of-his-game Pep Guardiola.
In that regard, the players enjoyed every minute of the Wembley outing, celebrating and giving it their all on and off the pitch. However, not all personnel wished to be a part of this victory.
Casemiro did not feature for Manchester United in the FA Cup final
According to BBC, Casemiro specifically asked Erik ten Hag to not include him in the matchday squad against City as a substitute. Of course, the reason behind the Brazilian’s request was nothing insidious as he merely wished to not pick up an injury.
The report adds that the former Real Madrid midfielder was benched by Ten Hag as he was not 100% fit.
However, Casemiro, whose name appeared on the official team sheet, didn’t feel completely ready for the challenge due to his tight hamstring and asked the manager to let him not play any part in Saturday afternoon’s fixture.
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While he celebrated the win with his teammates, he was quick to kickstart his vacation. Now, there is understandable speculation that he is exit-bound, with Saudi Arabian clubs like Al-Nassr being reported as the most likely suitors.
United would benefit by offloading Casemiro as his wage package could easily fund two young and passionate signings instead.