"For him 100 per cent is not enough" – Casemiro opens up on life under Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag
Manchester United star Casemiro has opened up on his playing experience under Erik ten Hag, showering praise on his manager for his ambitious outlook at the club in the process.
The Red Devils have relished a good campaign in Ten Hag's first season in charge as they are on course to achieving UEFA Champions League qualification for next term. They have also lifted the Carabao Cup this time around.
Since the former Ajax boss' arrival, Manchester United have registered a whopping 40 wins, eight draws and 11 losses across all competitions. They have scored 101 goals and conceded 58 times in 59 overall matches so far.
Speaking to The National News, Casemiro shared his thoughts on Ten Hag's work ethic and hunger. He elaborated:
"He has surprised me a lot with his ambition. We have been talking among us and he is a little bit heavy because he always likes to win. He is asking for more because for him 100 per cent is not enough. We have to give more than 100 per cent. He works a lot and is very ambitious. He has the ambition to change the whole club."
Lauding the Dutchman for his impact at the Old Trafford outfit, the Brazilian added:
"He is a manager who has the respect from all the players and the fans. But I think we need to give him time because despite the fact we have already won one title and are quite close to the Champions League, we need more time to grow. We can see he is changing a lot of things at the club. He is always showing ambition to win."
Manchester United have three fixtures left in the ongoing 2022-23 campaign. After facing Chelsea and Fulham in the Premier League, they will lock horns with treble-chasing Manchester City in the FA Cup final on June 3.
Casemiro reveals his contentment at debut Manchester United season
When asked about experience at Manchester United in his first season, Casemiro told The National News:
"I am really happy here. I am enjoying being in the Premier League a lot. I haven't enjoyed so much for a long time and since I arrived at the club, all of the staff, the fans, everybody have been really incredible with me. I am trying to give them back everything on the field and give my best. It’s a really good experience for me."
Casemiro, 31, sealed a permanent switch to Manchester United from Real Madrid in a deal worth up to £70 million last summer. He has registered six goals and as many assists in 48 appearances so far this campaign.
A right-footed defensive midfielder blessed with tackling and shooting, the 70-cap Brazil international has formed a midfield trio with Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen. He has a contract until June 2026 at the club.
United have already won the Carabao Cup this season and are one point away from sealing a top-four spot in the Premier League. An FA Cup final win against their local rivals could really prove to be the icing on the cake for the Red Devils.