Midfielder Casemiro has recently established himself as a key player for manager Ruben Amorim.
Amorim initially ignored the Brazilian upon his arrival at Manchester United. He considered him not the ‘best option’ because of how he wanted his team to play.
Described as ‘world-class‘ by pundit Jamie Carragher, Casemiro has now earned Amorim’s trust. He has only failed to start four games across all competitions since the start of March.
He played a key role in United’s qualification for the Europa League semi-final. He provided two assists and won a penalty in the thrilling quarter-final second-leg clash with Lyon last week.
He was rested for yesterday’s Premier League clash with Wolves to keep him fresh for the double-header against Athletic Bilbao.
Former England centre-back Rio Ferdinand has highlighted how important Casemiro has become for United and his experience could help them win the Europa League.
He told Rio Ferdinand Presents: “”When the chips were down against Lyon, he turned up. He assisted the last two goals and won a penalty. That is not his game, by the way.
“There is a moment in some games where it is down to only certain players. He is one of them right now at Man United. Casemiro has the experience and quality.
“I think there are some players, when they grow older, who need the system and team. I think they found that way of playing with him. The spaces are not as big as they looked earlier in the season.”
“It is understanding the little moments, details and the distances of when and how to go. You do not get that as a kid. He has probably seen these moments for many years, and those little details will come up and pay trumps in big moments.”
Man United need Casemiro to stay fit and in form to win the Europa League.
He has formed a good partnership with Manuel Ugarte in the midfield and the Red Devils need that partnership to continue blossoming.
Stats from transfermarket.com