On the occasions Manchester United were without Casemiro last season they often froze. The Brazilian, following his arrival from Real Madrid in August 2022, quickly established himself as one of United's most important players, playing a key role in their resurrection under Erik ten Hag.
He formed a strong and stable midfield bond with Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes, so much so that supporters thought United's long-term midfield woes had finally been fixed.
Yet this season Casemiro, who will miss Saturday night's trip to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United through injury, has regressed at an alarming rate.
The reason behind his sudden decline is almost impossible to put your finger on, but something is going wrong somewhere for the 31-year-old. READ MORE: United could be about to learn something new about Rasmus Hojlund READ MORE: United's squad size has changed already and is set to change again It is why for the first time since his arrival at Old Trafford, the prospect of United being without him has not set alarm bells ringing as loudly as in the past.