Casemiro opens up on his role at United under Erik ten Hag

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Casemiro had a great debut season at the heart of Manchester United’s midfield following his £60m move from Real Madrid.

The 30-year-old was instrumental in United’s push for a third place finish – he was also vital in winning the Carabao Cup, scoring in the final at Wembley.

Casemiro even managed to rack up seven goals and six assists, showing himself to be an all-action midfielder. On this Casemiro told the Manchester United Official website that he doesn’t see himself as a scorer.

“I reckon it’s now the third season in my career where I’ve managed to score seven goals,”. He continued “I get the odd goal now and again but, of course, I’m not what you’d call a genuine goal scorer!”

Despite his denial, it’s hard to refuse his status as a decent finisher, especially after his goal against Bournemouth in May, which won the clubs goal of the month.

Casemiro added his more offensive role has come due to football’s philosophical changes.

“In modern football, you defend with all 11 players, and you attack with all 11 too. That is how football is nowadays.”

He concluded, “It’s just impossible to defend or attack all by yourself. So, I always have to help out the other lads both in attack and also in defence.”

Casemiro’s role at Manchester United – In his own words

Despite having multiple goal contributions, he wasn’t signed for this. He was signed as a midfield general to protect the backline and link the midfield.

The Brazilian described his role in midfield and spoke of the joy he gets from completing his tasks.

“My ball-winning tackles are my goals. That’s what I really like doing and that’s when I’m at my happiest.

“When I’m winning the ball back, helping out my team-mates, getting my team-mates playing and moving the ball better, closing down space and then ensuring that we bring the ball out from the back with quality.”

The five-time Champions League winner proudly added, “They are really my duties but, sure, everyone likes to score and create assists.

“We all like to but, in reality, my job and what I do on the pitch is something quite different, everybody knows that!”