Casemiro celebrates two years with United in style
It has been two years since Brazilian midfielder Casemiro made his move from Real Madrid to Manchester United, and he has already banked an inspired performance in our first Premier League game of 2024/25 against Fulham.
The battling midfielder made the journey from Madrid to Old Trafford with significant fanfare, arriving as one of the most decorated players in world football, counting five Champions Leagues and a Copa America among his silverware collection.
Landing as one of the first signings under Erik ten Hag's tenure, he has continued adding to his trophy cabinet under the Dutchman, clinching the Carabao Cup in his debut season with the Reds - where he scored the all-important opener against Newcastle United - and making vital contributions on our road to Emirates FA Cup glory last season, including the last-minute winner at Nottingham Forest.
He marked this two-year milestone with a characteristic Casemiro performance against the Cottagers; marshalling the central unit with grit and determination, and providing a creative spark from deep going forward. It contained all the ingredients likely to set him up for a successful season at Old Trafford.
A fine display from our no.18
PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS | Casemiro covered every blade of grass in his impressive showing v Fulham in M16...
Our no.18 is most renowned for his defensive qualities, breaking up opposition attacks and brushing away danger before it threatens our last line of defence. Injuries last season meant the former Madrid man even had a stint in the backline himself, and fulfilled the makeshift role valiantly.
He was at his protective best in our season-opener against Fulham, deployed back in his natural midfield position for this occasion.
He had the most tackles (4) of any United player across the 90 minutes and the second-most clearances (4) of any Reds performer, behind only the equally stoic Harry Maguire, according to stats provided by Opta.
In reality, however, Casemiro is more of a Swiss Army knife than a one-job tool, contributing to all phases of play, and he showed that in spades against our west London visitors at Old Trafford.
According to Opta, the Brazilian created the most chances (3) of any United player in the match and kept things ticking in possession with the fifth-most successful passes (43) in the 90 minutes.
In just one outing of the new Premier League season he proved what Reds fans have known for two years now: that Casemiro is the man for all weathers and all occasions, giving his all to provide whatever the team needs at any moment.
Supporters are not alone in their recognition of the central stalwart, with Ten Hag also recognising his importance to every aspect of the play following the opening day victory over Fulham.
Speaking in the post-match press conference, the boss said: "As a midfielder, he has to defend and attack, everyone knows Casemiro is also a brilliant passer and I think his performance all over was very good, exactly what we expect from him. A good organiser, good at interceptions, good in duels, but also he's a good linker, a good passer."
Reds everywhere will hope this is a sign of things to continue from the South American as we embark on the new season, and that he will, once again, play a key role in a trophy-winning season at Old Trafford.
Congrats on the milestone, Case!