It feels unfamiliar to write about a successful Manchester United transfer, but the form of defensive midfielder Casemiro warrants it.
A renowned star signing from Real Madrid playing well shouldn’t be surprising, but it is at Old Trafford. United have a habit of signing superstars for the sake of it rather than because they fit into the team.
Indeed, center back Raphael Varane, also signed from Madrid, has not been as transformative as you may have expected. Jadon Sancho, Ronaldo, Pogba, Cavani… the list of expensively acquired signings who haven’t improved in Manchester is lengthy.
Read: Erik ten Hag – Carabao Cup Win Shows United ‘On A Good Pathway’
So when United spent the whole summer in a failed pursuit for Frenkie de Jong, they appeared to settle on Casemiro.
Casemiro was recently named to the FIFPro XI for the first time in his career. He has arrived in the Premier League to show that a player in his 30s can still improve.
In fact, he says the Premier League is more challenging than La Liga, which has spurred his upward trajectory.
”Well, honestly, it’s different.
“Especially because of the different circumstances, like the intensity of the games here.
”I’m not trying to underestimate La Liga, but the games here are much more difficult, there’s a higher number of transitions.”
After years of a dysfunctional and underwhelming midfield, the Brazilian international is making it click at last. He delivered a leader’s performance in United’s recent Carabao Cup final win over Newcastle, showing the fans what they were missing.
Read: Jurgen Klopp Hopes Real Madrid Loss Isn’t Damaging
It also shows the value of adding players to a team which has actual momentum. Erik ten Hag is doing a good job at Old Trafford and Casemiro isn’t the only player to improve.
I’m afraid to say that for rival fans, the fun might be over. Manchester United have a grown up in the dugout and a grown up on the pitch as well. It turns out that’s quite useful.
