Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag confirmed ahead of Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final with Liverpool that Casemiro had picked up an injury problem.
Brazil announced that their captain had been forced to withdraw from the squad for the upcoming friendly fixtures with England and Spain, suggesting that he would miss the clash with Liverpool.
"We have just received a report from Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar. From a pre-list made by the Brazilian National Team's technical committee with 50 names, 13 of them were already away due to injury at their clubs," Brazil head coach Dorival Junior told reporters.
"Unfortunately, we also lost Casemiro. Therefore, Pepe, from Porto, a native striker who now plays as a midfielder, is called up."
Man United said in a statement on their official website that the experienced midfielder was sidelined for the clash with Liverpool due to a muscular problem.
© Reuters
Ten Hag was then asked about the situation ahead of Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final with the Merseyside giants, which Man United won 4-3 to advance to the semi-finals of the competition.
"It does [affect us] because Casemiro is very experienced and a very important player for us in organisation, also on the ball, he brings composure to the team and he can bring great passes to bring our frontline into great positions, especially with the three with their immense speed," the manager told ITV Sport.
"You miss, of course, a passer like Casemiro."
Casemiro's absence against Liverpool meant that Scott McTominay dropped back into central midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo, with Rasmus Hojlund returning to the side at centre-forward following a spell out with a muscular issue.
© Reuters
The 32-year-old has made 21 appearances for Man United during the 2023-24 campaign, scoring five goals and registering two assists in the process.
The midfielder was absent for a lengthy period earlier this season due to a hamstring issue, but he made his return in January and has been a vital player for Ten Hag's side in recent weeks.
Casemiro will not be involved for his country during the international break, and it remains to be seen whether he is back for Man United's next game against Brentford on March 30.
The South American has another two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford, with the option of an additional 12 months, but he could be on the move this summer amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
Matt Law
