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Back when Casemiro agreed to leave Real Madrid for Manchester United, he would never have envisaged his career was about to become such a roller-coaster of a ride.
His impressive initial form was almost single-handedly responsible for a Carabao Cup success in his debut season while also helping the Red Devils qualify for the Champions League while also reaching the finals of the FA Cup.
But things began to unravel pretty fast for the Brazilian in his sophomore campaign as Erik ten Hag’s switch to a transition-based style meant he was left with acres of space to cover in midfield, which he struggled due to his ageing legs.
Injuries did not help, nor did being forced to play at the heart of the defence. Things got so bad that he was dropped from the FA Cup final matchday squad and all signs pointed towards a summer exit.
Casemiro’s roller-coaster United career
But a move to Saudi Arabia failed to materialise and the five-time Champions League winner ended up staying put. Ruben Amorim’s arrival saw him drop further down the pecking order and he was even overtaken by academy ace Toby Collyer.
But the Brazil international fought hard behind-the-scenes and now is one of the first names on the teamsheet for the big games and Amorim cannot stop praising him.
The 33-year-old was the catalyst for the remarkable comeback win against Olympique Lyonnais in the quarter-finals of the Europa League while he put in another masterclass against Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final first leg.
As revealed by Fabrizio Romano on Givemesport, the head coach has pointed to the Brazilian as an example of how a player can win back his place through hard work.
The Portuguese tactician has even held a one-on-one meeting with the former Real Madrid superstar to thank him for his professionalism with the pair’s relationship stronger than ever.
Amorim loves Casemiro
“Sources say that Ruben Amorim is highlighting Casemiro as a fantastic example to follow for all the players, and not only the youngsters: train hard, work hard, be professional and never give up – even when the coach doesn’t play you or the media criticise you.
“Amorim loves this sort of mentality, and sources also add he told Casemiro in a face-to-face meeting in training how grateful he is for the professionalism and how he is setting an example at Carrington. The relationship is understood to be very good now.”
Despite his renaissance in form, INEOS are still looking to move him on due to his humongous wages. The player does not want to leave and wants to see out his deal.
“Sources guarantee a good proposal from Saudi Pro League could still open the doors to an exit for Casemiro as Manchester United keep looking for sales in order to help with Financial Fair Play, also with the Brazilian being on a big salary at Old Trafford.”
Whether INEOS’ stance leads to frictions with Amorim in the summer remains to be seen. Fans will be hoping to see more from Casemiro as the Red Devils look to end the season on a high by clinching the Europa League.
Feature image Eddie Keogh via Getty Images
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