“I feel like I am 18 years old, if it were up to me I would already play today against Liverpool” – Casemiro makes bold statement ahead of Manchester United transfer
Soon-to-be Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has delivered a bold statement as his transfer from Real Madrid is on the brink of completion.
The Brazilian is joining the Red Devils in a £59.5 million deal, signing a four-year contract with the option to extend for a further year, per Sky Sports.
He has spoken about his excitement ahead of the move, even desiring to play in United's clash against fierce rivals Liverpool.
The defensive midfielder has not been registered in time due to visa problems, so he will miss the two sides' game on Monday, August 22.
Touching on his arrival at Old Trafford, Casemiro said (via UtdReport):
"Signing for (Manchester United) is a very important challenge for me — I feel like I am 18 years old, if it were up to me I would already play today against Liverpool."
The Brazilian will be joining a Manchester United side in disarray, contending in the UEFA Europa League rather than the UEFA Champions League.
Casemiro is a five-time Champions League winner but he has dismissed talk that he is taking a step down with a move to Old Trafford:
"Leaving the Champions League for the Europa League? I'm going to one of the biggest teams in the world, competing with the greatness of Real Madrid."
#RealMadrid
Casemiro and his farewell to Real Madrid. 🤍🇧🇷 #RealMadrid
@marca 🎥⤵️
https://t.co/GNis6jzFii
The defensive midfielder joined Real Madrid from Brazilian side Sao Paulo in 2013 and has become a stalwart for the La Liga giants.
He has made 336 appearances during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu, scoring 31 goals and contributing 29 assists.
The Brazilian leaves Madrid having become a Los Blancos legend and a huge part of their recent era of success.
His first appearance for Manchester United is likely to come against Southampton on August 27.
Casemiro joining familiar faces at Manchester United
Casemiro will join former Real Madrid teammates Cristiano Ronaldo and Raphael Varane at Manchester United.
The trio had huge success together, winning four UEFA Champions League titles.
Varane reportedly played a big part in persuading the Brazilian midfielder to join the Red Devils.
Erik ten Hag's side have started their Premier League campaign off in woeful fashion with two losses on the trot.
The midfield has been a huge issue for the Dutch tactician following the departures of Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic.
United are in stark need of midfield reinforcements with the likes of Scott McTominay and Fred having disappointed for a length of time.
Casemiro is renowned for being one of the best defensive midfielders in the world and will hugely improve the current United side.