Manchester United are facing a midfield crisis that goes far beyond one game. The numbers don't lie: when Casemiro doesn't start in the Premier League this season, United simply don't win. Zero wins in four matches without the Brazilian in the starting XI tells a story of a team that hasn't found its rhythm without its midfield anchor.
Sunday's goalless draw at Sunderland was the latest example. After winning their previous three meetings, United were outplayed by Regis le Bris' side. The Black Cats boss was left frustrated his team didn't take all three points, and it's easy to see why. Sunderland had more possession, more shots, and a higher expected goals (xG) total. United managed just one shot on target all match—a stoppage-time effort from Matheus Cunha that was saved by Robin Roefs.
The good news? Michael Carrick confirmed Casemiro will be "fine" for next week's home clash with Nottingham Forest, giving fans a chance to properly bid farewell to the 34-year-old midfielder whose four-year impact at Old Trafford has been immense. But that only delays the inevitable question: how do you replace a player who has been so crucial?
With Casemiro out and Manuel Ugarte also missing, Carrick had to make a choice. Drop Kobbie Mainoo back into the defensive midfield role and use Bruno Fernandes or Mason Mount as the advanced midfielder? Or give 19-year-old Tyler Fletcher his first senior start and keep Mainoo in the more advanced position where he's thrived since returning to the lineup?
Carrick opted for Mainoo and Mount, especially with Fernandes still chasing history—he needs one more assist to join Thierry Henry and Kevin de Bruyne on 20, the best single-season Premier League assist tally ever. But the result was a flat performance that lacked creativity and control.
This isn't just about one game. United's midfield depth is being exposed, and few at the club believe Ugarte is the long-term answer. With Casemiro set to leave this summer, the search for a proper replacement is becoming urgent. For now, United are learning the hard way that some players are simply irreplaceable.