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Erik ten Hag describes how Casemiro has outperformed expectations at Manchester United.
Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, gave a long speech about Casemiro’s accomplishments during his first season with the team.
The Brazilian struck an outstanding improvised overhead kick as the Red Devils defeated Bournemouth 1-0 on Saturday. As a result, they just need one point from their next two games, which they will play at home against Chelsea and Fulham, to qualify for the Champions League.
Despite having more than his fair share of conduct issues this season, Casemiro has generally solidified his position as one of the finest midfielders in the Premier League.
Erik Ten was questioned on Casemiro’s ability to ‘meet expectations’ since moving to Old Trafford at his post-match news conference, despite the player’s history as a five-time Champions League champion from Real Madrid.
“Absolutely, by far,” Ten Hag asserted.
“One of the things came out of our analysis was that we missed a player in the midfield, we studied this and we searched for this, it was not easy because there are not many in the profile who fits to the standard of Manchester United.
“We are happy we found him and his contribution is massive. I think even you miss him over eight or nine games through suspension – in the start of the season he wasn’t even there, but when he plays, you bring balance to the midfield and we’ve had a lot of wins with this midfield.
“He keeps surprising you. He’s such a brilliant football player. We know him as very good with organisation, anticipation, winning duels, fighting and keeping the team together but in possession his passing distribution and finishing is very important.”