Casemiro: Real Madrid never gives up against Man City

Casemiro, Manchester United’s holding midfielder who joined the club from Real Madrid in 2022, has expressed that he was not surprised by Real Madrid’s remarkable comeback win against Manchester City in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League.

Having been a part of one of the greatest midfield trios in world football at Real Madrid, alongside Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, Casemiro helped the team dominate the midfield and has won the prestigious European competition five times. His experience with Real Madrid’s mentality gave him confidence in their ability to fight until the very end, despite trailing 2-1.

“It wasn’t a surprise to me. Madrid almost always does it, and everyone knows the history of this team and what it is capable of doing. Madrid always grows until the end and never gives up,” Casemiro said in an interview with AS Diario.

Even with a 2-1 deficit at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, Casemiro believed there was still plenty to play for, especially considering the team’s strong mentality and the challenge of facing a top coach like Pep Guardiola. In the end, Real Madrid managed an unlikely victory with two late goals by Brahim Diaz and Jude Bellingham, bringing the score to 3-2.

The second leg will be held at Santiago Bernabeu, and Casemiro acknowledged that while it would be a tough match, the Bernabeu is special during Champions League nights. He wished all the best to his former teammates, hoping they would progress to the next round.

Since joining Manchester United, Casemiro’s role has been a bit more subdued as he has struggled to adjust to the faster pace of the Premier League. He has featured in 22 of 25 games this season but has played in just 15 league matches, starting 11 and making 4 substitute appearances.

Despite this, Casemiro remains grateful for his time at United, expressing his desire to fulfill his contract, which has one and a half years remaining. He also expressed his appreciation for the club and its fans. Although he is not satisfied with being on the bench, Casemiro is determined to continue working hard for his teammates and the club.

“I have a year and a half left on my contract and I’d like to fulfill it here in Manchester. I’m comfortable here and so is my family,” he said. “I’m very grateful to the Old Trafford fans and to the club.”