ERIK TEN HAG is reportedly plotting a shock tactical switch for the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
The Manchester United manager is believed to be considering dropping Casemiro to the bench for the Wembley clash.
Ten Hag, 54, could be taking charge of his last match at the club and is hoping to end with a flourish.
According to The Athletic, the Dutchman has been prepping his team to start without the former Real Madrid star.
The report claims that Sofyan Amrabat could take his place, having been the preferred option in training sessions.
The Moroccan has recently impressed in the backline but could be moved up the pitch due to returning stars.
Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are set to be fit for the final and will line up in the defence.
Casemiro joined the club in a £70million deal in 2022 and shone in his debut campaign.
This season, the midfielder has seen his form drop, and he has been open to criticism from Jamie Carragher.
Ten Hag insisted that the club has struggled with defensive injuries this season.
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Following the 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion, he claimed it had been a “nightmare”.
He said: “Our centre-half position was a nightmare across the season.
“I’m glad we have something to choose and we have to think, of course, about quality but also about fitness levels.
“Probably we will need more than two next week.”
Ten Hag has insisted the club has told him that they want him to lead the rebuild this summer.
However reports claim that he will be relieved of his position regardless of the FA Cup result.
Man United have a four-man shortlist to replace him should be sacked.
The four names consist of Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna.
Here is a look at Erik ten Hag's record in charge of Manchester United.
Games: 113
Wins: 67
Draws: 15
Losses: 31
Goals scored: 205
Goals conceded: 155
Points per game: 1.91
Honours: EFL Cup x1 (2023)
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