Brazil legend Rivaldo has advised Manchester United's Casemiro and Antony to leave this summer as he believes they are being unfairly criticised.
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Casemiro and Antony advised to move onRivaldo thinks Brazilian duo harshly treatedManchester United duo facing uncertain futuresGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?
The Brazilian duo joined Manchester United in the summer of 2022 as a pivotal part of Erik ten Hag's plans for the club. However, the duo have failed to make the impact expected and both have received a lot of criticism for their performances. Rivaldo has now had his say and thinks that the criticism the duo have received is unfair due to the difficulties the club have experienced under the Dutchman.
AdvertisementWHAT RIVALDO SAID
Speaking to Betfair, Rivaldo said: "I still say Manchester United winger Antony is a great player. He's already played in a World Cup for Brazil and he's still young with plenty of football to play. He's currently at a club that's been going through difficult times for a while now, so in my opinion leaving England could be good for him.
"Moving to a side in Spain, Germany or Italy could be fundamental for his progression now. With his skills and the football that he can play, I think that he would fit very well into any big team in Spain, for example. It could be good for him to go to a club where he can return to playing regularly and aim to get back into the Brazilian team. Who knows, maybe in 2026 he can play in another World Cup."
Rivaldo then went on to discuss Casemiro: "As mentioned, Manchester United are not the club they once were. The club is going through difficulties, and it is unfair that Casemiro is criticised for that. It is up to the club to put together a strong squad and then it depends on all the players performing so that they can compete for titles.
"I've heard rumours that he could go to Saudi Arabia, but if he wants to play in a World Cup, he must go back to Spain, or move to Italy, and compete at the highest level because he still has the skills necessary for that."
Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Casemiro has been linked with a potential transfer away from Old Trafford this season, with a move to the Saudi Pro League having been reported as the most likely destination for the former Real Madrid midfielder. As for Antony, his future remains uncertain with no real links having been made for a possible move this summer. With Ten Hag's future still uncertain, there will be discussions within the Manchester United camp soon regarding the future of the 24-year-old winger.
WHAT NEXT FOR THE DUO?
The Brazilians will very likely be involved in some sort of capacity in United's last Premier League match of the season on May 19 against Brighton. Afterwards, the Red Devils will prepare for the crucial FA Cup final against on Manchester City on May 25.