There is little doubt that Casemiro is among the top holding midfielders of his generation, and his most recent antics for Manchester United serve as a prime example of this.
A few people had criticised United for spending about £60 million on the Brazilian player in the summer. After all those years of glory in Madrid, some people believed that he was looking for one last payday.
In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Casemiro has adapted well to life in Manchester, and the city’s supporters have taken a shine to the 31-year-old.
While Fred and Scott McTominay’s efforts over the years have been admirable, United has long needed a classy operator like Casemiro in the middle.
The first thing that attracts you to him is his disposition and his propensity for spotting danger before it manifests itself. His fleeting flashes of genius, however, are what truly distinguish him from the competition.
When you believe you have a player like Casemiro figured out, he surprises you by accomplishing something amazing. He recently outperformed himself against Bournemouth.
The cunning Brazilian recognised his opportunity to pounce as the Bournemouth backline stood motionless like statues. Christian Eriksen quickly realised what was going on and lobbed the ball over the defenceless Cherries.
The strike that Casemiro executed next was one of the silliest ones he’s ever executed in his career. The Brazilian tekkers on display in this finish would make even Ronaldinho flush. absurdity personified.
It’s no accident that Casemiro’s suspension and United’s performance decline occurred at the same time. He provides structure to the entire United team and has the ability to be a spectator himself.
In March, Ten Hag told reporters, “Casemiro, in this team, he is such a leader, and he is so important for us.
Not only with his performances, but also with his abilities, such as goal-scoring, or his header [against Newcastle], or, like linking up or intercepting balls. For our organisation, [he is] significant. We are so pleased that we signed him because of his mentality and cultural fit.
“I was aware of what a superb player he was. Simply peruse his profile. It’s not a coincidence that he has won so many cups, as you can see,” Ten Hag continued.
“They won five Champions League titles, just like Casemiro and Raphael Varane. That’s not a coincidence, and it didn’t just happen. It’s always the same for me. There are players who consistently win and players who consistently lose.
The Brazilian midfielder has been a great addition to the Premier League this year because he is a natural winner. There is no question that United supporters will continue to follow that goal-back for the next couple of weeks, and we don’t blame them.
