What Casemiro admires about Ten Hag
Casemiro has explained how Erik ten Hag's obsessive desire to succeed has impressed him greatly as the South American shows his world-class capabilities at Manchester United.
The Brazil international, one of the best defensive midfielders on the planet, has sparkled at Old Trafford after being eased into life in the Premier League, following his summer move from Real Madrid.
Ahead of the Europa League group decider with Real Sociedad, Casemiro sat beside the boss at a press conference and enthused about the Dutchman's insatiable winning appetite.
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ArticleThe manager has provided a fascinating recount of their conversation following August's transfer from Real Madrid.
"I believe that, after being in football for quite a while, despite the fact I am only 30, his obsession for winning is what surprised me the most," said Casemiro.
"I think he's got many strengths. We all know it's a process and we are growing together. But we all see that he wants to win. His obsession for teaching us and leaving everything perfect to the millimetre, that is key. His obsession for winning is something that only a few managers have.
"It's something I have only seen in very few managers."
Casemiro was asked if he was concerned about picking up an injury with the World Cup finals starting later this month.
The ball-winner will be a key figure for the bookmakers' favourites to lift the trophy but is not even thinking yet about competing in Qatar.
"With a player's mentality, it is impossible to even start thinking about the World Cup," he stated. "Tomorrow's game is way too important for us to start thinking about the World Cup etc.
"So I think any player who starts thinking like that picks up an injury in the end, so that's not my profile at all. All I think about is giving my all tomorrow on the pitch, in order to play a great game and help my team-mates."