‘Marked an era’ - Casemiro names ex-Man Utd & Real Madrid stars as his ‘midfield icons’

Casemiro has named Paul Scholes and Zinedine Zidane has the two midfielders he looked up to as a youngster.

The five time Champions League winner has established himself as one of the world’s great midfielders in the last decade, and formed part of a formidable trio at Real Madrid alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. Casemiro also impressed in his maiden season at Manchester United, after signing for a fee of £60m in 2022.

It was the Brazilian’s passing range that perhaps stood out when he arrived at Old Trafford, with his defensive qualities well known from his nine years in La Liga. It’s not surprising, therefore, that when asked to name his ‘midfield icons’, Casemiro selected two stars from the 1990s and 2000s who regularly showcased an outstanding array of passes.

“Those two definitely marked an era, especially Paul Scholes, who played here,” United’s no.18 told the club’s website. “I think he’s one of the best midfielders to look up to. And Zinedine Zidane due to his talent, especially.”

After a superb first year in Manchester, Casemiro’s form has dropped a little this season, which has been impacted by injury, but he impressed in the recent 2-1 win over Aston Villa and has started the last five in all competitions.

The 32-year-old has established himself as a regular in the team as part of a midfield containing Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. However, Casemiro has been linked with a summer exit from Old Trafford, with ESPN claiming he is among 11 players United could look to offload ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Casemiro has two years remaining on his contract at United, with the option of an additional 12 months. The ex-Porto and Madrid man has made 68 appearances for the club and has scored 11 goals.