Casemiro’s Intent to Stay at Manchester United
Manchester United’s star midfielder, Casemiro, has made it clear that he intends to see out his contract with the club, despite growing interest from Saudi Arabian teams. Casemiro, who moved to the Red Devils from Real Madrid in 2022 for a significant £60 million fee, has experienced a decline in playing time this season, often finding himself on the bench under the new management of Ruben Amorim. His recent start in the 1-0 defeat against Tottenham on Sunday, though, did little to dispel concerns about his form and fitness. Despite the challenges, Casemiro remains committed to the club, emphasizing his desire to fulfill the remaining 18 months of his contract.
Adapting to Life in Manchester
The Brazilian international’s decision to stay is not solely based on his professional commitments but also on the personal aspects of his life. Casemiro and his family, including his wife Anna Mariana, have settled well in Manchester. They have adapted to the local culture and language, with both Casemiro and his family speaking English fluently. This sense of belonging and gratitude towards the Old Trafford fans and the club itself has played a crucial role in his decision to remain with Manchester United. Casemiro expressed his contentment, noting that the club and the city have been welcoming and supportive, making it a comfortable home for him and his family.
A High Earner with a Price to Match
Casemiro is one of Manchester United’s highest earners, commanding a weekly salary of £350,000. This substantial paycheck has made him an attractive target for clubs in Saudi Arabia, where the financial incentives are often irresistible. Last month, it was reported that clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah were showing interest in the midfielder. Al-Ittihad, another potential suitor, was keen on signing Casemiro during the summer transfer window, but most Saudi clubs have now reached their quota of foreign players, making any move more complicated. Despite these lucrative offers, Casemiro has shown no inclination to leave Manchester United, reinforcing his dedication to the club and his career in Europe.
A Respectful Approach to the Club
Casemiro’s comments in an interview with Spanish outlet AS highlight his respectful and professional approach to his situation. He acknowledged that he would like to play more and contribute to the team, but emphasized his commitment to respecting his teammates and the club’s technical committee. "I have to keep doing what I’m doing, with a lot of respect and education," he stated. "Of course I’d like to play more, and I’d like to help the club at this time. I approach things with respect for my teammates and the technical committee." His words reflect a mature perspective on his role and the collective goals of the team, which is a trait highly valued by both the club and its fans.
Nutrition and Physical Preparation: The Key to a Long Career
One of the underlying themes in Casemiro’s interview was the importance of maintaining a high level of physical fitness and nutrition to prolong his career. At 33 years old, he considers himself to be in the prime of his career, thanks to modern advancements in sports science and personal discipline. "I’m young and I still have a lot of life left. I’m now 33 years old and in this era I’m 28 years old," he explained. Casemiro pointed to the example of Cristiano Ronaldo, who continues to score at a prolific rate even at 40, attributing this to the meticulous care and preparation he puts into his body and game.
Vinicius Jr and the Future of Football
In the same interview, Casemiro also touched on the rumors surrounding his former Real Madrid teammate, Vinicius Jr, who is reportedly attracting interest from Saudi Arabian clubs with a significant bids being prepared. Casemiro, speaking as a fan, expressed his hope that Vinicius Jr would continue his career at Real Madrid, emphasizing the importance of making history in football. "If I were to speak to you as a fan, I would tell you to look at how important it is to make history in football, in your career. You have already done so up to now, but at your age you have a long way to go to continue making it," he said. However, he also acknowledged that such decisions are deeply personal and that Vinicius Jr must weigh his own priorities and aspirations.
A Committed Professional in a Shifting Landscape
Casemiro’s stance on his future at Manchester United and his advice to Vinicius Jr reflect a broader trend in football where players are increasingly mindful of both their professional and personal lives. While the lure of financial rewards from clubs like those in Saudi Arabia is significant, the desire to leave a lasting legacy and maintain a high level of performance is equally important. Casemiro’s commitment to Manchester United, despite his reduced playing time, is a testament to his professionalism and the strong bonds he has formed with the club and its supporters. As the Red Devils navigate the current season and look towards the future, Casemiro’s presence and attitude will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role.
