30 January 2024 , 13:45
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Casemiro has opened up on what it’s like for Manchester United falling behind Manchester City and Liverpool - and his challenge to return them to being the best in the world.
The Brazilian midfielder admitted they “are not in the best place” compared to their big rivals. With major silverware largely drying up since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013, United have had to watch on as others soar. Erik ten Hag did lead them to the Carabao Cup last season, his first campaign in charge, and a first major trophy in six years.
But they are off the pace again this time around, something Casemiro hopes to remedy after his recent return from injury.
The ex-Real Madrid star said in an interview with CNN: "It's good that I'm now returning for the second half of the season.
“The second half is the most important and I want to really enjoy it, to return and win with Manchester United. And to take us to the top of the table and, without a doubt, help my teammates as well. It's a pleasure to play for United and it's a big club. It's not in the best place at this moment compared to other clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool.
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“However, United will always be the biggest club in England because of its history, magnitude and titles. It was always my challenge to help my teammates and Manchester United keep growing and of course, as we all want, return the club to being the best in the world.”
Manchester United's Casemiro (R) vies with Newport County's Shane McLoughlin during the English FA Cup fourth round tie. (AFP via Getty Images)He was speaking after picking up an award at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.
Casemiro, who helped eighth-placed United beat Newport County 4-2 to set up an FA Cup fifth round trip to Bristol City or Nottingham Forest, said: “It's a pleasure to receive an award [player career award] like this, at just the age of 31. It's recognition of some of the good things that I've done in the last 10 or 15 years.
"Each year is always special, I'm someone who lives in the moment and in this moment it's Manchester United. I'm enjoying it a lot and I try to enjoy it each day.”
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