Christian Eriksen and Casemiro have formed a formidable partnership together at Manchester United this season and their record when starting together speaks for itself.
United’s midfield was the first area that Erik ten Hag needed to address. As the previous partnership of Scott McTominay and Fred had only delivered a 6th placed finish last season.
Eriksen had a successful stint at Brentford before he was snapped up by United on a free transfer in the summer. He started the season well, but an ankle injury has kept him out for a large chunk of the season.
Prior to his injury setback, he had started to develop a good playing relationship with Casemiro. The five-time Champions League winner was signed for around £60million in the summer.
After not featuring in United’s first few league matches, Casemiro almost instantly elevated the standards once he arrived. The Brazilian midfielder only lost two league matches this season when he has started.
Playing as a midfield pivot behind Bruno Fernandes, Eriksen and Casemiro offer a great balance between them. Both players are able to provide quality on and off the ball.
In the league, Casemiro has averaged 3.1 tackles per game which is more than any other United player. He also makes 2.2 clearances and averages 1.3 interceptions.
That then allows Eriksen to dictate things next to his midfield partner. The Danish midfielder creates 1.3 chances per game and completes around 50 passes.
United are bound to be boosted by Casemiro returning from suspension and Eriksen regaining his fitness at the same time. Ten Hag has spoken on the importance of both players.
“It’s obvious and clear that two very valuable players (are coming back), especially so in midfield,” Ten Hag told reporters.
“We all know how important the midfield department is and what we have had to do in several games is find a new balance and that’s not so easy to find in this stage of the season.
“Sometimes it’s also a little bit trial and error bringing new players in, bringing players in a different position so that’s what we did.
“We have to make it a really successful season and we have a great squad now, so I’m really positive to get a good final stage of the season and to get even more silverware.”
We’ve collected the data to see how United have done this season with both Eriksen and Casemiro starting together in midfield. We’ve taken a look at each competition and then have worked out their overall record…
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