Casemiro, 32, struggled in the second half of Erik ten Hag's reign at Manchester United and was often criticized for his performances. Now, under Ruud van Nistelrooy, the 32-year-old midfielder is playing with spirit and fervour once again. He looks much more sure of himself in midfield and has renewed confidence to score goals.
Casemiro's Performance Against Leicester
The Brazilian found himself at the heart of the game in the Carabao Cup Round of 16 against Leicester City. Casemiro bagged a brace and was close to a hat-trick. He had a passing accuracy of 78% with 68 total touches on the ball. He recorded five total shots, two of both being his goals. His first goal came from well outside the box, demonstrating his newfound confidence.
Defensively, Casemiro was also crucial in the Manchester United win. He contributed four clearances, four tackles, and three blocks. Casemiro showed off his ever-existing potential, which Manchester United fans have hoped to see since he came to the club from Real Madrid.
Casemiro Against Chelsea
While the game against Chelsea didn't live up to expectations, Manchester United earned a point at home. Casemiro shined once again, offering more hope for the Red Devils and giving Van Nistelrooy something to be pleased with.
His long ball played in Rasmus Hojlund, who then won the penalty that Bruno Fernandes converted to put Manchester United up 1-0. Casemiro earned himself a booking for stopping a Chelsea attack and turned to Alejandro Garnacho with furious words for the Argentinian not tracking back after the ball. He has stepped up in leadership since the sacking of Ten Hag.
Van Nistelrooy and Casemiro Connection
It was no secret that Ten Hag and Casemiro did not see eye to eye at the back end of the Dutchman's reign at Manchester United. Ten Hag's coaching methods, which included a lot of video analysis, were often criticized by fans and assumingly players alike.
But Van Nistelrooy has different methods when it comes to coaching. He has opted to have one-on-one sessions with players, which seems to be helping to bring out the best in players, including Casemiro. The Dutchman played for both Real Madrid and Manchester United and knows what top-tier players would prefer, as a former top player himself.
Casemiro has thrived under the ex-Red Devil and he will hope that new manager Ruben Amorim will keep Van Nistelrooy on the coaching staff. Van Nistelrooy is open to working under the Portuguese man, who has also said he inclined that he would be open to keeping some Manchester United staff.