Manchester United will be without this key player for trip to Arsenal

Manchester United will be without star midfielder Casemiro for Sunday’s trip to the Emirates in what’s a massive boost for Arsenal.

The Red Devils looked destined to head into the weekend’s mammoth Premier League encounter off the back of a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace before Michael Olise struck at the death with a stunning free-kick to snatch a point for the Eagles.

It was a horrible conclusion to proceedings for Erik ten Hag, who had just overseen the most significant victory of his tenure thus far in the Manchester Derby. 10 minutes before Olise’s leveller, he learned that he’d be without Casemiro for Sunday’s game in north London.

Manchester United will be without this key player for trip to Arsenal

The former Real Madrid midfielder picked up his fifth yellow card of the Premier League season when he cynically scythed down Wilfried Zaha in the closing stages of United’s draw with Palace. He’s picked up a one-game suspension as a result, meaning he’ll miss Sunday’s game.

It’s a huge blow for Ten Hag, who’ll likely have to start either Fred or Scott McTominay (or both) alongside Christian Eriksen in midfield against the Premier League leaders. Casemiro has played a vital role in United’s resurgence either side of the World Cup break, and his absence will be hard-felt against a purring Gunners midfield.

“Last time we beat Arsenal without Casemiro. As a team, we already showed how to beat Arsenal,” Ten Hag said after the game. However, he’ll know how big a blow the Brazilian’s suspension is to United’s chances of snatching anything in Sunday’s contest.

Arsenal are currently eight points ahead of the Red Devils heading into the weekend’s clash having played a game less. Thus, victory for Arteta’s men would put a significant dent in United’s title hopes. The hosts are out for revenge.