Casemiro delivered a stellar performance for Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, making a powerful statement to his critics—particularly ex-United captain Gary Neville.
With two goals and a commanding presence on the field, he was instrumental in United’s 5-2 victory over Leicester City in the round of 16, a result that has now sent them through to the quarter-finals.
The Brazilian legend, who joined United from Real Madrid, seemed to be playing with extra fire. Critics like Neville and former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher haven’t held back in recent months, even suggesting that Casemiro might be nearing the end of his career. But Casemiro’s performance against Leicester showed a very different story—he still has plenty to give.
The night was full of highlights, beginning with Casemiro’s impressive opening goal—a 30-yard strike that sailed into the top-right corner, setting the tone for United’s aggressive attack. His second goal came after he followed up on a blocked shot, reacting quickly to tap it in from close range. With that goal, he helped United extend their lead to 4-1 and put them in a dominant position.
Fans at Old Trafford certainly recognized Casemiro’s impact. They were quick to vote him Player of the Match, an accolade he’s been deserving of but hasn’t always received amid recent criticism. His form in this game reminded fans and pundits alike of the reason he was brought to Manchester United in the first place—to add strength, skill, and big-match experience.
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The timing couldn’t have been better for Casemiro’s impressive showing, either. With Erik ten Hag’s recent departure, speculation has been rampant about the team and its players, and Neville’s recent comments only fueled it further. Just days before this game, Neville had labeled Casemiro as one of Manchester United’s “worst signings of all time,” a harsh judgment that didn’t go unnoticed by fans or Casemiro himself.
Neville’s comments came after Ten Hag’s sacking, as he took aim at several recent signings, including Casemiro and fellow Brazilian winger Antony. According to Neville, both players were panic buys following early-season losses to Brentford and Brighton, and he even suggested that these were “two of the worst transfers” the club has ever made.
In a recent podcast, Neville explained his disappointment, stating, “The performances have been really poor this season, the results have been shocking, the league position is terrible.” But Casemiro’s display against Leicester seemed to provide a rebuttal to these remarks, showing that he still has the ability to change games and bring leadership to the pitch.
Neville also noted that while United’s recent trophy wins reflect some positives, the club’s recruitment in recent years has left much to be desired. He commented, “His legacy is definitely winning two trophies in two seasons through a very difficult point. The recruitment, to be fair, has been appalling for ten years, and he’s been a victim of that himself.”
Despite his strong words, Neville admitted he’d like to be proven wrong about Casemiro and Antony. “I hope I’m wrong,” he added. “I hope Casemiro can do a great job for the club for four or five years, and I hope Antony comes good.”
With Casemiro’s standout performance against Leicester, it’s clear he’s determined to defy those who doubt him, including former legends like Neville. His contributions are a reminder that, even at 32, he still has plenty to offer to Manchester United, and fans will be eager to see if he can continue to prove his critics wrong as the season unfolds.
