With Casemiro expected to depart at the end of the 2025/26 season, Manchester United face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement in midfield. Saha, speaking to AceOdds, highlighted two names he believes could step into the Brazilian's role: Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes and Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali.

"United need aggression, someone who can dictate the tempo in midfield," he said. "I see someone like Tonali or Guimaraes, who are both monsters in midfield. With young players like Kobbie Mainoo, it's crucial to have someone with experience and vision to manage the transition when Casemiro leaves. Experience, objectivity and leadership will be key."

Saha also weighed in on the potential of younger midfielders such as Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace and Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, noting that while they are promising, their age - 22 and 23, respectively - makes them less suited for immediate leadership in the defensive midfield role.

"If you bring in a young player, that can be a disruption," he explained. "It's excellent for the future, but United need short-term experience. A combination of Wharton and Guimaraes could work well, because Guimaraes brings a captain's profile to the squad."

Reflecting on Casemiro's contribution, Saha concluded: "I've always been a big fan and advocate of Casemiro. In the last two years, he was asked to perform too many roles, but now his responsibilities are defined. He has proven to be a world-class player, and I understand why fans want him to stay. Replacing him will be very difficult."

Sandro Tonali

Logros