The pre-match buildup to Manchester United’s Europa League quarter-final against Lyon has focused on Andre Onana, but another United player needs to be careful in the clash.
Ruben Amorim’s side face Lyon on Thursday night as they look to reach the final four of the competition, which is their only chance of silverware and almost certainly European qualification.
United are the only unbeaten team in the Europa League and Champions League this season, but Paulo Fonseca’s team will be a tough challenge. Cherki has been highlighted as a particular danger.
The buildup has already had some added spice with ex-United player Nemanja Matic and current keeper Andre Onana trading insults. Fans will have an eye on the pair during Thursday’s first leg in France to see if any of that drama spills onto the pitch.
However, it’s another Red who must be on his best behaviour in United’s biggest game of the season so far.
Casemiro is one yellow card from suspension
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is at risk of missing the second leg if he picks up a yellow card against Lyon on Thursday.
Under UEFA’s rules, three yellow cards in the competition will result in a one-match ban. Casemiro has already picked up two, and although he successfully stayed out of trouble during the two legs against Real Sociedad, the record will not be wiped until the quarter-finals finish.
Bruno Fernandes already fell foul of disciplinary rules when he was sent off for two yellow cards against Porto and had to serve a one-match ban, but as he has already been punished for those cards, he is no longer a suspension risk.
Matthijs de Ligt and Marcus Rashford are the other United players on two yellows, but with De Ligt injured and Rashford on loan, Casemiro is the only risk.
United would miss Casemiro’s defensive contributions
Fortunately, the data doesn’t suggest Casemiro should be a disciplinary liability. He has committed fewer fouls than eight of his United colleagues in the Europa League, including two who have played fewer minutes than him.
Ruben Amorim will still be wary, though, as his options are limited without Casemiro. Toby Collyer is not expected back for a few weeks and Amorim will look to manage the returning Kobbie Mainoo’s minutes. Bruno Fernandes could drop into a deeper role, but it would be a shame to dilute his attacking influence.
What’s more, Casemiro reminded United fans of his defensive abilities in Sunday’s Manchester derby and they could be sorely missed against Lyon.
| Metric | Number | Match rank |
| Tackles | 7 | 1st |
| Duels won | 13 | 1st |
| Defensive actions | 15 | 1st |
| Interceptions | 2 | 2nd |
The Brazilian will have to rise above any provocation and keep a cool head in Thursday’s clash to avoid missing the second leg.
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