Casemiro entered the 2025-26 campaign under renewed scrutiny. Having already spent three seasons at Old Trafford, he knows the club and the pressures. With the 2026 World Cup looming, he has made clear his ambition to be in top form by season’s end. He was linked with a move to Saudi in the summer but the window closed with him still in Manchester. Under manager Rúben Amorim’s preferred system Casemiro is expected to operate as the deepest midfield anchor, tasked with shielding the defence and helping launch attacks.
Given United’s broader tactical transition, Casemiro’s role has been a balancing act: he must provide defensive stability while also seeking to be more composed on the ball than last season.
What he’s done so far this season, which includes the highs of a goal against Chelsea as well as a sending off in the same game, has been enough to impress Carlo Ancelotti, with Casemiro rejoining the Brazil squad and renamed captain.
I’m one of those players who thinks there are many leaders and ways to lead. Each one forming their own leadership. I like to give more examples, more details of how to do it, how to get there, how to be, where to be, how to work.
Without a doubt, my relationship with the coach, whom I’ve known for over 10 years, creates a greater affinity. But I like to demonstrate it [leadership] and set an example for the younger ones.
Having been with the team for a while and having played in two World Cups, of course you try to convey what to do and what not to do. But, when it comes to the national team, they’re established players, and you just end up having to adjust a little more. I am one of those who thinks there are many ways to lead and this is my way of leading.