Manchester United face a crucial decision this summer as Manchester City leads the race for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, valued at £65 million. The England international attracts interest from multiple clubs, with City positioned as his preferred destination.
Bryan Robson Pushes for Anderson as Casemiro Replacement
Club legend Bryan Robson recommends that United prioritize Anderson to fill the void left by Casemiro, who departs Old Trafford at season’s end. Robson expresses disappointment over the Brazilian’s exit, praising his defensive solidity, forward contributions, aerial prowess, game reading, and precise passing.
“I’m disappointed that Manchester United are going to lose Casemiro, because I think he is a really good player,” Robson stated on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast. “He has turned his career around at United. He has been good defensively and going forward, and he’s really good in the air. He reads games well and he’s a great passer. His ability to turn the ball round the corner into the forwards is top drawer.”
Robson positions Anderson as the top target, noting Declan Rice’s unavailability from Arsenal. He mentions Sandro Tonali as a strong alternative, though Newcastle may resist his departure. United’s scouting team must identify a suitable successor, Robson urges, highlighting past shortcomings in replacements.
“(To replace Casemiro), I’d like Elliott Anderson to sign for Manchester United. He’d be my first choice signing. They’re not going to get Declan Rice from Arsenal, and that makes Anderson my first choice,” Robson added. “If they can’t get him, Sandro Tonali is the player everybody is talking about, but I can understand why Newcastle wouldn’t allow him to leave.”
Call for Michael Carrick’s Permanent Appointment
Robson also advocates for interim manager Michael Carrick to secure the role full-time if United qualifies for the Champions League. He credits Carrick with transforming the team’s balance and delivering strong results.
“If Michael Carrick gets Manchester United into the Champions League, they should give him the job permanently. He deserves it when you look at where they were when he took over,” Robson said. “When he was interim manager the last time, he played three tough games against Villarreal, Chelsea and Arsenal, and he didn’t lose a game. This time he’s changed the balance of the team and based on the results so far, he deserves the job.”
