Manchester United will enter their crucial match against Newcastle United on Saturday, April 2nd, 2023, without their most important player, Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder has been integral to United’s defensive solidity this season, and his absence will be a major blow to the team’s chances of holding off Newcastle in the race for a top-four finish.
Manchester United’s tactical approach without Casemiro
Without Casemiro in the lineup, Manchester United’s defense has been vulnerable in recent matches. In games where the Brazilian has not played, United have allowed more expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes than when he has started.
In the League Cup final against Newcastle earlier this year, Manchester United played a direct style of football with goalkeeper David De Gea sending 60% of his passes into the Newcastle half due to the Magpies’ high press and De Gea’s poor ability on the ball. Although the xG battle was relatively even, with Newcastle tilting the field on United, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side prevailed by a single goal.
Newcastle’s tactics against Manchester United
Newcastle can press Manchester United high if they decide to build from the back, and they can cause problems for United. Playing the ball long and making the match transitional also plays into Newcastle’s hands.
The match should not be close to a pick’em at St. James’ Park without Casemiro available for Manchester United. Newcastle has a good chance of winning or drawing against Manchester United without Casemiro.
Injury concerns for both teams
Both teams have significant injury or absence concerns going into this match. In addition to Casemiro, key players such as Miguel Almiron and Christian Eriksen are also in question for their respective teams.
The previous encounter between the two sides
In the first half of their previous encounter, Newcastle were on top with several attacks and fouls. However, David De Gea made a sensational double save on Alexander Isak and Joe Willock to keep Manchester United in the game. In the second half, Allan Saint-Maximin scored from a Bruno Guimaraes cross to secure a 1-0 win for Newcastle.
The battle for a top-four finish
This match is a crucial one in the battle for a top-four finish in the English Premier League. Manchester United currently sit in third place, three points clear of fifth-place Newcastle. With a victory, Newcastle could move ahead of United into third place due to their superior goal difference.
Key players for both sides
Alexander Isak leads the attack for Newcastle, while Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes are key players for Manchester United. The Magpies have one of the best defenses in the league and have lost only one match at St. James’ Park this season.
Expert predictions
SportsLine soccer insider Martin Green advises taking the under on the goal total in this match due to Newcastle’s solid defense and Manchester United’s struggles without Casemiro. United will also be preparing for their FA Cup semifinal match against Everton in the coming weeks.
In conclusion, Manchester United will have to find a way to cope without Casemiro as they take on an impressive Newcastle side who will be looking to secure their place in the top four. This match promises to be a tense affair full of quality football from both sides.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
