PL winner leaps to defence of maligned United man whose recent criticism from pundit has been ‘too harsh’

The international break would’ve provided some much-needed respite for Casemiro after another turbulent start to the season.

Indeed, the Manchester United midfielder came under fire for his horror show in the first half of the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool on September 1, with Casemiro largely at fault for his defending for Luis Diaz’s quickfire brace.

Erik ten Hag certainly thought so, too, as he opted to replace the experienced Brazilian at half time and utilise 20-year-old Toby Collyer.

On Sky Sports’ commentary and analysis panel for the clash, Jamie Carragher ripped into Casemiro – as he has done on numerous occasions already – for his performance in the 45 minutes he spent on the pitch, claiming it was a ‘sad sight’ to see a player who boasts such an illustrious career now struggling to continue at the top level.

Yet, ex-Arsenal and Chelsea defender William Gallas has leapt to the veteran’s defence and attempted to dissect why Casemiro is floundering under the pressure of the Premier League.

Gallas rallies behind troubled Casemiro

“Jamie Carragher is too harsh on Casemiro,” Gallas asserted, as cited by The Mirror. “Casemiro is in a bad moment, and maybe he’ll end up leaving United, but he might enjoy his football again if he were to return to Spain, for example.

“He’s only 32, so he’s nowhere near retirement. I think he’s got another five or six years before retirement.

“The big question over Casemiro is, is he happy in Manchester? In my opinion, his body language suggests that he isn’t happy living there. He is making so many more mistakes than when he was at Real Madrid when he lived with a great lifestyle and sunshine. Now he is in Manchester, and it’s cold and raining, and it can be difficult for some players off the pitch.

“He’s from Brazil and then lived in Spain, and it’s not like he just jumped across the border from France where the weather is similar. It’s not always easy.”