Talk of Manchester United’s title has gradually died down after two disappointing results against Crystal Palace and league leader Arsenal.
In the match against Palace, the Red Devils suffered two brutal blows: midfield general Casemiro received his fifth yellow card of the season, and Michael Olize’s late goal deprived United of the chance to score all three points.
And since the Brazilian was disqualified against the Gunners, Scott McTominay got a chance from the very beginning. But the academy graduate could not have the same impact as the former Real Madrid star.
McTominay struggled to replace Casemiro
In the end, United lost 2-3, despite valiant efforts, and Erik ten Hag will learn more about his team after these two poor results.
One thing that is quite obvious is that there is currently no viable alternative for Casemiro, and despite the best efforts of the Dutch manager, other options are woefully failing.
McTominay initially managed to keep the Brazilian national team player out of the team for a few games, but after he struck at Manchester City, he played very few games from the very beginning.
✍️ Newcastle United have dropped out of the race for right-back Ivan Fresneda, as he looks to choose either Arsenal or Dortmund. The club also held talks with Manchester United over Scott McTominay, but been told he will NOT be leaving Old Trafford. [@David_Ornstein 🥇] #NUFC pic.twitter.com/4OhrSphP5F
— ToonArmy (@toonarmy_com) January 23, 2023
The Scot has been the object of interest from several Premier League teams, in particular West Ham United and Newcastle United.
According to The Peoples Person, United rejected the midfielder’s offers because the Dutch boss does not want to lose players before the second half of the season.
According to The Athletic, Newcastle is not losing hope of acquiring McTominay. They understand that it may not be possible to get him on board in January.
Newcastle will come for McTominay in the summer
But they plan to return to their interest in the summer, when United will need to get rid of players in order to comply with the FFP rules, as well as invest heavily in the team.
Eddie Howe is a big fan of the Scottish footballer’s talents and he feels he can be a major player at Newcastle rather than playing a secondary role after Casemiro at United.
“Eddie Howe was looking for a new midfielder, and he admires McTominay’s athleticism and his ability to hold the ball.
United were aware of Newcastle’s interest last summer, and McTominay was again the subject of consideration at St. James’ Park this winter, given the 26-year-old’s status after Casemiro in Eric ten Hug,” Laurie Whitwell wrote in his report.
