When Manchester United paid £60m to sign a 30-year-old Casemiro who had won it all at Real Madrid, several eyebrows were raised, but it has proven to be an astute signing.
After Erik ten Hag’s men lost 4-0 to Brentford, the club hierarchy knew something had to be done. The pursuit of Frenkie de Jong was bearing no fruit due to his contract and wage issues with Barcelona, and United looked desperately light in midfield.
Erik ten Hag made De Jong his priority signing on arrival, and it was easy to see why.
The Red Devils spent last season with a defensive midfield of Fred and Scott McTominay. Two players who just should not be starting options in a team of this magnitude, and the performances and results mirrored their abilities.
Casemiro’s stats have always been incredible, as evidenced during Real Madrid’s European dominance. Despite winning his fifth Champions League title last season, the Brazilian was looking for a new challenge, and decided to move to Manchester.
Casemiro’s Impact
Since Casemiro arrived, United have looked an utterly different team. He protects the back four excellently well, and his leadership qualities are there for all to see.
Casemiro provides balance to his teams by defensively supporting his more offensive-minded teammates. He also shines at accurately distributing the ball to them after regaining possession. A well-rounded midfielder with a powerful shot from outside the penalty area, consistent distribution, and the ability to get forward with his off-ball runs or start attacks with his passing.
He has delivered all of these qualities in his first season in England, and Manchester United have become a better team for it. At this moment in time, he is the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League, and he has transformed the United midfield into a powerhouse.
