The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
‘No nonsense’ Casemiro hailed as Manchester United’s new ‘guard dog’
The Brazilian midfielder scored his first goal for Manchester United to secure a point against Chelsea
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Antony has described compatriot Casemiro as Manchester United’s new “guard dog” and hailed his teammate as a “no-nonsense guy”.
The Brazilian midfielder scored his first goal since a summer move from Real Madrid to snatch a dramatic late point against Chelsea.
After displacing Scott McTominay from the lead holding role in Erik ten Hag’s midfield, the 30-year-old has become an increasingly key figure, also impressing in the win against Tottenham last week.
Teammates with the five-time Champions League winner for club and country, Antony believes the tough tackling Casemiro is a crucial component as Ten Hag begins to build his preferred side.
“I always say he’s our guard dog in the middle,” the winger, a fellow summer recruit to Old Trafford, told the Manchester United website. “He’s a no-nonsense guy, a more serious type.”
The midfielder was not a prolific goalscorer during eight full seasons in the Spanish capital, registering 31 times in more than 330 appearances, largely from a deeper role, and scoring only once in his final season with Real Madrid.
But Casemiro showed his aerial prowess with a powerful header that looped beyond Kepa and crept in at the far post to open his account for Manchester United with a timely stoppage time equaliser at Stamford Bridge.
The 65-cap international insists, though, that his primary focus is on his key defensive role.
“I think the goals have to come naturally,” the 30-year-old told the club’s matchday publication, United Review.
“Everybody knows my work. My role is defensive - to help my team-mates and bring the ball out from the back with quality.
“I defend, first of all, and provide balance to the team. I help my team-mates with defensive work, bring the ball out with quality, that is my job.
“Of course, a goal here or there is nice but doing my job and defending well comes first.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments