Casemiro‘s move to Manchester United was one of the big surprises of the summer, with the midfielder looking for a new challenge.
The Brazilian left Real Madrid, breaking up a successful trio with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, and the latter admits he regrets Casemiro’s departure.
In an interview reported by UOL Esporte, Modric talked about how his role has had to change since Casemiro’s exit, which speak volumes about the Brazilian’s quality.
He expressed how Casemiro’s departure had taken him by surprise, having had an initial complacency that the rumours would not materialise into anything.

Toni Kroos says he misses Casemiro
German midfielder Toni Kroos still wishes Casemiro was a Real Madrid player, as it would make his life easier in the team.
New signing Aurelien Tchouameni’s arrival helped push Casemiro out the door, and Kroos says he is still adapting to playing alongside him.
He explained: “I was surprised by Casemiro’s departure. It is true that the rumors started two days before, but here there are always many rumors and often nothing happens. But when he told me, I was sad, because I started to remember all the years with him and the things we won together.
“My role has changed a bit with the arrival of Aurelien [Tchouaméni], because he leaves his position a little more than Case.
“It forces me to defend a little more, but I also like it. It doesn’t change me much, although maybe it’s a little more defensive.”
Kroos’ comments speak volumes about how talented Casemiro is, and how positionally disciplined he is.
Manchester United have lacked a player like this for too long. The shield he adds in front of the defence led to the team recently going 12 hours of action without conceding a goal from open play.
Real Madrid’s loss is Manchester United’s gain, and the £60 million fee paid looks fair, and might actually end up becoming a steal for the Red Devils.
There will remain a concern that the 30-year-old might not be able to keep up his strong form in two or three years, but for now, United fans have a high appreciation of what he is bringing to the team.
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