Neville says fans 'will miss' Man Utd warrior who won 100% aerial duels vs Villa
Manchester United delivered a commanding performance to defeat Aston Villa 3-1 at Old Trafford yesterday.
The victory allowed United to tighten their grip on third place in the Premier League table, strengthening their push for a Champions League spot.
While Bruno Fernandes once again orchestrated the game with authority, Casemiro received a deserved standing ovation when he was substituted late in the match.
Former United captain Gary Neville lavished praise on Casemiro after the game.
He said (via Sky Sports): “It’s right that United let him go and it’s right that he leaves.
“This feels like a cameo at the end of his career, almost like a swan song. He is probably loving every minute, showing the badge and kissing it to the fans.
“These fans absolutely love him and it is right that he does leave at the end of the season. They will miss his presence in both boxes.
“I think he’s phenomenal at getting on the end of crosses also clearing them. He is brave by the way, it was an exceptional goal.
“Casemiro has given everything for this football club. He absolutely leaves everything on the pitch.”
Casemiro is going out on a high
The 34-year-old has enjoyed his most prolific league campaign, scoring seven goals this season. His previous best came during the 2020-21 season with Real Madrid, when he found the net six times in La Liga.
He has also developed an outstanding on-field connection with Bruno Fernandes, with the Portuguese playmaker assisting five of Casemiro’s goals.
The Brazilian opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, timing a clever run to the near post before glancing a precise header beyond the goalkeeper.
It was a goal crafted through intelligence and timing rather than the usual pushing and blocking often seen during set pieces.
Casemiro also contributed strongly at the back, registering six defensive actions and winning all three of his aerial duels.
Sections of the Old Trafford crowd chanted for him to stay another year, but Neville believes the timing is right for both parties to part ways.
Casemiro will always be remembered fondly in Man United history and he deserves to go out on a high.
Stats from Sofascore.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .