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Casemiro is not past his prime. |
In the modern world of football, where age is often considered the greatest enemy of every player, there are warriors who defy the laws of nature to assert their timeless class. Casemiro – the Brazilian giant – is proving that he belongs in that world.
From the career slopes to the pinnacle of European football.
At the start of the 2024/25 season, many experts and fans were quick to sound the alarm about Casemiro's career at Old Trafford. At 33, with signs of declining speed and fitness, the Brazilian midfielder seemed to be a burden to the team. But like a silent undercurrent rising, the former Real Madrid star chose the right moment to counterattack.
His intelligent ball control against Athletic Bilbao, his header that opened the scoring in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final, and his ability to control the tempo of the game all showed a completely different Casemiro compared to the first half of the season. He's not just a "defender" in his traditional role; he's transformed himself into an unpredictable attacking threat for opponents.
Statistics don't lie. Two goals and two assists in his last four games. But even more impressive is his presence on the pitch – without Casemiro, Manchester United lost three consecutive matches. This is no coincidence, but proof of the enormous influence of an irreplaceable player.
What is the secret to Casemiro maintaining peak performance at an age when many of his peers are already considering retirement? The answer lies in his ability to adapt and constantly evolve his playing style.
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Casemiro is still valuable. |
When speed is no longer his strong point, he compensates with his exceptional game reading ability. When stamina shows signs of decline, Casemiro knows how to conserve energy and explode at the right moment. In a two-central-midfielder formation alongside Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro is no longer simply a "ball-drawing machine" like he was during his time at Bernabeu.
Now, he is the architect of the midfield play, the link between defense and attack, and a surprise threat when he pushes forward to participate in attacks. This transformation is not only a product of experience but also the result of scientific training and an iron will.
"Casemiro isn't the fastest or the most technically gifted player, but he can read the game like no one else," coach Ruben Amorim once shared. "That's why he's always in the right place at the right time."
The king of finals
There's something peculiar about Casemiro that not many people notice: he was born to conquer big matches. His record of 20 wins in 22 finals throughout his career is no coincidence. It's proof of the steely resolve of a true warrior.
At Manchester United, Casemiro won both finals he participated in (League Cup 2023 and FA Cup 2024). Even more impressively, since 2021, he has not tasted defeat in any final. This explains why manager Amorim always prioritizes using him in crucial matches, despite criticism from pundits.
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Casemiro has been in excellent form in recent matches. |
On the pitch, Casemiro possesses a rare quality: the higher the pressure, the more brilliantly he shines. This stems from his five Champions League titles with Real Madrid – where he learned to handle difficult situations under immense pressure.
Casemiro's contributions extend beyond his performances on the pitch. In the dressing room, the former Real Madrid star is a guiding light for young talents. Bruno Fernandes once revealed: "Case doesn't talk much, but when he does, everyone listens. He knows what it takes to win."
For young players like Kobbie Mainoo, playing alongside a Champions League legend is an invaluable learning experience. And Casemiro doesn't keep his experience to himself – he shares it, guides, and elevates those around him.
This is why, despite speculation about his future, Manchester United's leadership still considers Casemiro an indispensable piece in the club's rebuilding plan. They understand that to build a successful empire, you need warriors who know how to win.
On the eve of the Europa League final, Casemiro once again has the opportunity to prove that age is just a number. With his current form and undeniable influence, he deserves at least one more season to continue his story at Old Trafford.
Casemiro isn't Manchester United's long-term future – that's something both he and the club understand. But for now, no one can replace his role. Like a bridge between a glorious past and a promising future, the Brazilian midfielder is leading the Red Devils back to their rightful place.
From a "sleeping giant," Casemiro has awakened powerfully, bringing his glory back to Old Trafford. And when the warrior awakens, all of Europe must be wary.
Source: https://znews.vn/casemiro-thuc-tinh-manh-me-post1552540.html
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