In a season clouded by inconsistency, injury setbacks, and ongoing questions about the future of several senior players, Casemiro has reminded the football world of his enduring class. The veteran Brazilian midfielder put in a phenomenal performance in the heart of Manchester United’s midfield during a fiercely contested goalless draw against Manchester City at Old Trafford.
More than just a gritty showing, it was a display of tactical brilliance, physical intensity, and leadership — punctuated by an incredible stat: Casemiro made 11 tackles, matching the Premier League club record for most in a game by a United player since records began in 2006/07.
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A Defensive Masterclass in the Manchester Derby
Casemiro’s latest outing wasn’t just another appearance — it was a powerful statement. He bookended his display with two memorable tackles. The first came early in the match, after Harry Maguire’s errant pass handed Phil Foden an early opportunity. Without hesitation, Casemiro intervened with a perfectly-timed challenge that left the City attacker on the turf but drew no whistle from referee John Brooks.
Fast forward to the final minutes, and the veteran midfielder was still operating at peak intensity. With just four minutes of regulation time left, he wrestled possession away from Jack Grealish before quickly switching into playmaker mode — feeding Alejandro Garnacho with a crisp pass down the flank. Though City snuffed out the counter, the move underscored Casemiro’s enduring energy and composure under pressure.
Tying Historic Records with Owen Hargreaves and Patrice Evra
The Brazilian’s 11 tackles equaled the all-time Premier League record for a United player in a single match. Only Owen Hargreaves (vs Liverpool, 2007/08) and Patrice Evra (vs Portsmouth, 2008/09) had previously reached this mark.
According to Opta, this is the joint-highest number of tackles by any United player in a Premier League game since data tracking began. More than a numerical footnote, it’s a symbol of his warrior spirit — one that brought edge, resilience, and leadership to a midfield that has often looked vulnerable.
Football analyst Statman Dave also emphasized the significance on X, stating, “No player across the top five leagues in Europe has won more tackles than Case’s 11 in a single game this term.”
A Commanding Duel Win Rate and Tactical Maturity
Beyond tackles, Casemiro dominated the midfield in other key areas. He won 12 out of 13 ground duels — a remarkable 92% success rate, the highest for any Premier League player this season with at least 12 duels contested in a single match.
His positioning, timing, and reading of play were vintage Casemiro — reminiscent of his prime years with Real Madrid. While Manchester City are no longer as incisive as they were during their recent title-winning heights, facing the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Jack Grealish, and Rico Lewis still demands sharp awareness and quick decisions. Casemiro delivered both.
Penalty Shout Adds to the Drama
Amid his defensive heroics, the midfielder also had a strong case for a penalty. In the 80th minute, he tangled with Mateo Kovacic in the box — a moment that drew vocal appeals from players and fans alike. However, referee John Brooks saw nothing in it and awarded a goal-kick, much to the frustration of the United faithful.
From Fringe to Fulcrum: A Season of Redemption
Casemiro’s season has been a rollercoaster. From being benched under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, to exploring summer exits to Saudi Arabia and Turkey, to now reclaiming a spot in the starting eleven — it’s been a redemption arc fueled by professionalism and grit.
Following a shaky performance against Liverpool in September and another underwhelming outing at Newcastle, Amorim opted to drop him. However, an injury crisis offered a way back in mid-February against Tottenham — and since then, Casemiro has seized the opportunity.
In United’s last 10 games across competitions, Casemiro has started seven, contributing both defensively and offensively. His disciplinary record, once a concern, has notably improved: just five bookings in 34 appearances this season.
“He Continued to Work” – Amorim’s Admiration
Despite being sidelined for a spell, Casemiro won over his manager with hard work and humility. Amorim remarked: “The important thing is that Casemiro won everything with Real Madrid. He wasn’t playing (in January and February) because I understood in the moment that he was not the best option to the way we want to play. But he continued to work. I look at my players in the same way. If they improve what we ask, they have the opportunity. If they play well, they continue to play. That was the situation of Casemiro. The credit is all to the player.”
Amorim’s words underline the transformation Casemiro has undergone — from a high-earning veteran viewed as surplus, to a model of professionalism whose form has justified his place.
Ugarte vs Casemiro: Age Over Youth?
One of the more intriguing subplots in United’s midfield dilemma is the competition between Manuel Ugarte, the €60 million signing from PSG, and Casemiro. At 33, Casemiro might not be the long-term solution, but his tactical intelligence and physical robustness still often eclipse Ugarte’s youthful energy.
Ugarte has struggled to go the full 90 in the Premier League — completing a match only six times from 18 starts. Meanwhile, Casemiro’s savvy and positional discipline offer a sense of balance, especially when paired with younger legs like Kobbie Mainoo, who recently returned from injury.
A Pivotal Role Ahead in the Europa League
Casemiro’s resurgence is well-timed, with United set to travel to France for the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon. His experience in Europe is unmatched in this United squad — a calming presence in high-stakes continental ties. In their last European away game against Real Sociedad, Casemiro not only performed well but also revealed his elite fitness when giving his shirt to a fan post-match, showing off his lean physique.
He continues to contribute at both ends — twice winning headers from Bruno Fernandes’ corners at Forest and testing Ederson with a sharp low drive in the derby.
Contract, Future & United’s Financial Dilemma
United’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has flagged Casemiro’s wages — reportedly £350,000-per-week — as a long-term issue. Winning the Europa League would see Casemiro’s salary escalate back to that figure due to performance clauses. While Ratcliffe aims to optimize United’s wage structure, Casemiro remains adamant about staying.
Whether this is a genuine commitment or a negotiation strategy is unclear. But for now, he’s playing like someone determined to earn his spot, not just cash his cheques. “He’s our player and continues to be our player,” Amorim stated.
FAQs
What record did Casemiro equal in the Premier League during the Manchester Derby?
Casemiro made 11 tackles, matching the highest-ever total by a Manchester United player in a Premier League game since records began in 2006/07.
Who previously held Manchester United’s Premier League tackling record before Casemiro?
Owen Hargreaves (2007/08 vs Liverpool) and Patrice Evra (2008/09 vs Portsmouth) also registered 11 tackles in a single league game.
How many ground duels did Casemiro win against Manchester City?
Casemiro won 12 out of 13 ground duels—an incredible 92% success rate, the best this season for any Premier League player with over 12 duels.
Is Casemiro expected to stay at Manchester United next season?
Yes, despite previous doubts, Casemiro now appears set to see out the final year of his contract, supported by recent standout performances.
What did manager Ruben Amorim say about Casemiro’s recent form?
Amorim said, “The important thing is that Casemiro won everything with Real Madrid… The credit is all to the player.”
