Manchester United's narrow 2-1 win over Brentford was met with another man of the match performance from Casemiro - who continues to prove his irreplaceability. The Brazilian midfielder scored his ninth goal of the season, moving him to second for goals by a midfielder in the Premier League this season. It was his eighth headed goal of the campaign, double that of any other player.
Tag: Game of Numbers
Sebastian Berhalter has become the Whitecaps’ most important player
With his all-around quality, it's abundantly clear. Sebastian Berhalter is the Whitecaps' most important player right now. His performance against Portland was one of the finest individual performances of any player so far this season, and continues to help cement the 'Caps as one of the most cutthroat teams in the league.
Benjamin Šeško is United’s best striker in years
With four goals in his last five matches, Šeško earned himself the Premier League's Player of the Month award for February. This, in just 85 minutes of making an impact off the bench. If he can continue to grow from here, the 22-year-old will almost certainly stake his claim as United's best striker in years.
Casemiro is leaving, and United still can’t replace him
Casemiro's been one of the best players in each of Carrick's matches in charge. In fact, he's been almost too good. Sunday's match against Fulham exposed exactly what United will miss when he departs, and why he might be someone they simply can't afford to lose, even if they must. At home to Fulham, Casemiro dominated the midfield, and put his stamp on both of the opening goals - scoring one and assisting the next. His absence in the dying moments of the game served only as a warning sign against Fulham, as Carrick's red-hot start to the season continued. But if this is how they play without him, the Red Devils better hope he's fit until the end of May.
Game of Numbers #42 – Scott McTominay as a goal-scoring midfielder
Now in Serie A, Scott McTominay has emerged as one of the most important players for one of the most historic clubs, scoring goals for fun week in and week out. Here is why Scott McTominay has become the main man in Naples.
Game of Numbers #41 – Reece James in central midfield
It doesn't have to be a forever thing. But for the time being, Reece James looks right at home in central midfield. Here's why it's been the perfect positional switch in allowing the best out of James this campaign.
Game of Numbers #40 – Bruno Fernandes as an ‘8’
They might not be firmly in the top four yet, but Ruben Amorim's Manchester United have seen significant improvement this season. Much has been made in the media about Amorim's use of the 3-4-2-1 and whether or not it's a perfect fit for players like Bruno Fernandes and his midfield partner Casemiro. But with some new signings hitting the ground running, Manchester United are clicking on all cylinders and getting the best out of their best players. Here is why Ruben Amorim's use of Bruno as an '8' has worked so far in 2025-26.
Game of Numbers #39 – Erling Haaland’s backstep before goals
Manchester City have scored 15 goals in the Premier League's opening 8 matches. Erling Haaland has scored 11 of them. And among many of those goals, a common trend has emerged. I call it - the backstep!
