Casemiro’s trophy cabinet stands as a testament to his extraordinary career, having clinched nearly every title imaginable with Real Madrid. Now, the tenacious midfielder is embracing a new chapter at Manchester United, and we explore his transition from the illustrious white of Madrid to the iconic red of Manchester, as well as his switch from Nike to adidas.
Known for his no-nonsense style, reminiscent of midfield legends like Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira, Casemiro has swiftly become a linchpin in United’s midfield. Despite his extensive list of accolades at Real Madrid, his desire for fresh challenges is palpable. In this candid conversation, he reveals his experiences in England, his reasons for choosing adidas, and his career ambitions.
You’ve been in England for about 18 months now. How has the experience been?
I’m truly enjoying it. From the start, I felt warmly welcomed by both the club and the fans. Everything has been fantastic, and I’m grateful to the city and supporters for making me feel at home. I’ve settled in well and feel relaxed here.
Have you had the chance to explore Manchester or other parts of the UK?
I’m more of a homebody, so I haven’t done much sightseeing. I’ve dined at various local restaurants, but I prefer staying home with my family. It’s where I feel most comfortable.
What drew you to Manchester United and Old Trafford?
The atmosphere and energy at Old Trafford were captivating. I was pleasantly surprised by the unwavering support from fans, even during tough matches. Their loyalty, whether at home or away, is remarkable and was a big factor in my decision to join.
Manchester United has a rich legacy. Do you feel a heightened sense of responsibility to contribute to it?
Pressure is a constant in football, but here, there’s a strong desire to continue winning and evolving. We’re in a phase of growth, and that’s the focus. Having played for Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team, I’m accustomed to pressure. It’s all part of the game.
With your extensive success at Real Madrid, what drives you to succeed at Manchester United?
That’s exactly why I came to Manchester United—to seek new challenges and learn in a different environment. I wanted to help my teammates and continue growing, which has been my primary goal since I arrived.
What stands out as the pinnacle of your career so far?
At this stage, it’s less about personal highlights and more about leaving a legacy for future players. I aim to contribute to the growth of the game and support the next generation. Highlights will come, but for now, my focus is on making a lasting impact.
You’ve achieved significant success with Brazil, including winning the Copa America. How important would a World Cup be to you?
Winning the Copa America was immensely fulfilling, especially after Brazil’s long wait for a major title. The World Cup is the ultimate dream, but it’s an incredibly challenging competition with only seven games to make an impact. It remains a goal and a dream for any player.
Your recent switch to adidas is a major move. What made you choose them?
This decision has been a long time coming. I admired adidas’s commitment to players during my time at Real Madrid. It felt like a natural choice to join them. I’m excited to be part of their team and contribute to their success.
You’ve chosen the Predator boots. What makes them special to you?
Comfort was my top priority. The Predator 24 boots offer perfect fit and exceptional comfort. After trying various models, this one stood out as the most comfortable and fitting for me.
Which players do you associate with the classic Predator boots?
Zinedine Zidane and Kaka immediately come to mind. As a kid, I admired these players and coveted their boots, though they were beyond my reach at the time. They’re synonymous with the Predator for me.
How do you spend your time outside of football?
I enjoy being with my family, playing with my kids, and indulging in video games. I’m also an avid football fan, watching games constantly, and I have an interest in basketball. My routine is pretty straightforward: training, eating, and sleeping. I like to keep my downtime simple and home-centered.