Manchester United midfielder Casemiro could reportedly miss their Europa League clash against Real Betis on Thursday.
United will meet Spanish rivals for the third time this season in the Europa League, having faced Real Sociedad in the group stages and Barcelona in the last 32.
However, Erik ten Hag’s team enters the first leg of their round of 16 match at Old Trafford having fallen to Premier League rivals Liverpool 7-0.
Six of the goals at Anfield came in the second half, effectively stopping United’s momentum after winning the EFL Cup late last month and going to the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Since joining United from Real Madrid in August, Casemiro has made 27 starts and eight substitute appearances across all competitions.
Despite claims that United are becoming fatigued due to Ten Hag’s lack of rotation this season, Casemiro was set to start on Thursday.
While that may still be the case, ESPN reports that his participation is far from certain due to injury.
Following a poor performance on Merseyside, it was thought that the 31-year-old was suffering from an injury during the second-half capitulation.
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Casemiro was replaced with 14 minutes remaining, but his absence could have been due in part to Ten Hag’s desire to rest key players after the match had already been lost.
According to a report, Casemiro is presently being evaluated by the club’s medical team to see if he can play against Betis.
If Casemiro is ruled out, it will be a blow to Manchester United, given the midfielder was well rested during his three-match ban in the Premier League in February.
Before the international break, United plays Southampton and Fulham, followed by the rematch with Betis on March 16.
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