When Ruben Amorim first landed at Manchester United last November, there were whispers. The Portuguese coach, taking the reins of the Red Devils, seemed to eye Casemiro with a hint of doubt. This Brazilian midfielder was a big signing from Real Madrid back in the summer of 2022, brought in by Erik ten Hag. Yet, for nine of Amorim’s first thirteen matches, Casemiro found himself watching from the bench. Something shifted, though, and before long, he became one of the manager’s most trusted players. So, what exactly happened to spark this change?
The truth is, Amorim was won over by the veteran midfielder’s sheer dedication and rigorous work habits. That’s the story from Oscar Ribot, Casemiro’s agent and one of his closest friends. Ribot, who has worked with the Brazilian for ten years, recently spoke with the ‘Daily Mail’ about what makes Casemiro tick. His account paints a picture of unwavering professionalism.
“Casemiro is incredibly methodical about his work,” Ribot explained. “He hits the gym before every practice session. Then, he’s back in his home gym later on.” It doesn’t stop there. He also undergoes regular physiotherapy treatments. During his downtime, Casemiro even uses special hyperbaric chambers to aid recovery. To top it off, he makes sure to get to bed early. “He is very professional,” Ribot firmly stated.
At Manchester United, word circulates that Casemiro maintains one of the lowest body fat percentages among the squad. Before Amorim’s arrival, there was a perception that he looked a little out of shape. Ribot, his friend and confidant, confirms the previous look but clarifies the current disciplined state. “He sticks to a very strict diet,” Ribot shared. “This ensures he consistently weighs 82.5 kilograms.” His eating plan cuts out all sugar. Instead, his meals focus heavily on fish.
Ribot also makes it clear that the relationship between Casemiro and Amorim is rock solid. “They share a fantastic relationship,” he revealed. “It’s built on absolute respect.” The manager knows just how crucial Casemiro is to the team’s success. “Amorim understands that Casemiro has to play,” Ribot added. “If he isn’t on the field, things just don’t go well for Manchester United. Casemiro is his soldier, and they truly have good chemistry.”
Off the pitch, Casemiro is just as integral to the team’s spirit. In the locker room, he shares a good bond with Matheus Cunha. He’s also become a sort of older brother figure to Diego León, an 18-year-old talent from Paraguay. And he’s particularly close with Bruno Fernandes.
When it comes to criticism, which always seems to flow freely at a club like Manchester United, Casemiro simply chooses to “ignore” it. Ribot says it best: “He’s a player everyone genuinely likes.” This affection isn’t just felt in the stadium. “Fans show great warmth for him,” Ribot concluded. “You see it not only during games but also walking through the streets of Manchester.”