Soccer, like life, is full of twists and turns. And Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder who, after a troubled 2023/24, has re-emerged as one of Manchester United's most important players, can say that with conviction. Once considered a bargaining chip, the No. 18 has proved on the pitch that his history at the English club is far from over. And frankly, United need him more than ever.
In the Community Shield, Casemiro showed why he was signed at a bargain price by United. With an impeccable performance, even in the face of a penalty shoot-out defeat to Manchester City, he made it clear that he's not ready to leave. On the contrary, the Brazilian midfielder was the engine of the midfield, commanding the defense, intercepting moves and even creating chances for the attack. Yes, he has changed the game, changed his status and, with it, United's prospects for the season.
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United manager Erik ten Hag knows this. After the match, the Dutchman was full of praise for Casemiro. And no wonder. With his first full pre-season under his belt, the Brazilian took to the field in top form. "It's the first time in a long time that he's had pre-season, so he's fit at the moment. I think that, as a team, we've worked very well, and that makes things easier for Casemiro. And he's a great player. You can use his skills and see how important he is to the game and to our team," said the coach.
Casemiro is here to stay, and he is vital to United's success. Ten Hag, who was also threatened with leaving, was keen to stress that Casemiro is a central part of his plans. "I have no sign that he won't stay at the club. And we're very happy about that," said the coach.
The numbers don't lie. In the Community Shield, Casemiro was the player who won the most duels (10) and made the most tackles (seven), as well as contributing decisive passes that could have changed the course of the match if Mount and Rashford had been more precise with their finishing. He even converted his penalty, showing the confidence that so many others lacked. The performance was worthy of a leader and, at 32, Casemiro proved that he still has a lot to offer.
But why was Casemiro so criticized last season? In part, the problem was United's disastrous campaign as a whole. A team with no identity, no clear direction, with its eternal crises and which narrowly missed out on European competition. Criticism of Casemiro came from all directions, especially when he was moved to play as a defender, a position that is not his forte. But that just shows how versatile the Brazilian is and how willing he is to sacrifice himself for the team.
When he plays in his natural position, as a midfielder, Casemiro is simply one of the best in the world. His ability to protect the defense, cut out opposition moves and deliver the ball in a simple but efficient way is irreplaceable. No wonder he shone alongside Modric and Kroos at Real Madrid, one of the most iconic partnerships in modern soccer. And that's exactly what he can continue to offer United: a solid base on which attacking talent can flourish.
What many forget is that Casemiro is the kind of player who does the dirty work, the one who rarely makes the headlines but whose impact is felt in every corner of the pitch. He won't get forward with the ball or launch brilliant passes, but he will ensure that United have possession so that others can do so. That kind of player is rare and, in United's current context, absolutely essential.
Faced with speculation of a possible departure to Saudi Arabia, it's understandable that some fans have been nervous and others happy. However, it's worth pointing out that losing a player of Casemiro's experience and quality would be a huge blow for the club, especially at a time when stability is what is most sought after. But, to the relief of the Red Devils, there have been no concrete offers. And Ten Hag doesn't hide his satisfaction at this. Casemiro staying means that United have at least one area of the field where they can count on consistency and leadership.
United are about to start their Premier League campaign against Fulham, and all eyes will be on Casemiro. He has already proved that he can bounce back from a poor season and come back stronger. Now it's only a matter of time before he re-establishes himself as one of the best midfielders in European soccer. And Manchester United can't afford to let him slip away.