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Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has credited his mentality for his stunning revival.
Casemiro had a slow start to the season and found game time limited early on under Ruben Amorim, but in recent weeks, he’s established himself as a key figure in the manager’s plans.
The Brazilian played a pivotal role in United’s dramatic comeback against Lyon in their Europa League quarter-final tie. He followed that up by scoring the opener in the 3-0 semi-final first-leg victory over Athletic Club.
The five-time Champions League winner looks revitalised, with recent reports revealing he’s been spending hours in the gym to boost his fitness and conditioning.
Amorim has repeatedly spoken glowingly of Casemiro, calling him an example for his teammates and younger players.
Casemiro spoke to club media and explained, “I have won what I have won. But I always want more. I always want to earn it, to win, that is the winning mentality. People only see the 90 minutes, I always say ‘the matches are the reflection of what you do every day’ and that is me – always working.”
“Whether I play or don’t play, I am there every day. That is me as a person, that is me. Whether I play or not – all I want is for United to win. If United win, I am winning. The most important is that United win. It is not about me winning or another player winning, it is about United winning.”
“I want to help in any way I can, I will be there. This is my mentality. That is why I have won what I have won in my career.”
On the victory over Lyon, Casemiro noted, “I will always remember those moments because it was such a difficult game, but these are the games that mark you as a footballer. They are the reason you play football. After the game, you say, they are the games you live for, and so these are the games you remember forever.”
The 33-year-old lauded the fans for their unwavering support even during an immensely difficult Premier League campaign.
Casemiro insisted that United fans are simply not normal.
“It isn’t normal. It isn’t normal how good they are.”
“I really think we have to talk about this and value this more.”
“Of course, when you do not win, it is difficult to be loyal and support the team. This year, in the European competition, we are a little bit closer but, in the league, we aren’t where we should be, and we aren’t playing well. But the fans are something incredible. It isn’t normal how good they are.”
“It isn’t normal how they support us and help us. The other night against Lyon was an unforgettable night in my career and something incredible, an incredible game. They always support us — whether we are playing well or badly. When I get home, I speak with my family or my inner circle about what the fans are like here.”
He thanked the United faithful for everything, adding that the season would have been even more challenging without them.
Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images
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