On Monday, Manchester United were in action at Old Trafford, taking on long-time rivals Liverpool in an exciting Premier League showdown, which was a brilliant one for the home supporters for two reasons. Not only did the Red Devils beat their arch-nemesis, securing their first win of the season, but a new signing was unveiled in front of the excited Theatre of Dreams crowd.
That man was none other than Casemiro, the iconic Brazilian who played a key role in Real Madrid's tremendous UEFA Champions League run over the past few years. The 30-year-old cost the 20-time English champions $71M up front, with an additional $12M set to paid in add-ons.
While this was a costly acquisition, the addition of Casemiro was necessary as it secures the defensive midfielder the Manchester United squad has needed for years. However, many have been wondering why the Selecao sensation would leave Los Blancos, a team that won La Liga and the UEFA Champions League last term, for a club competing in the UEFA Europa League.
There was speculation that Raphael Varane, who played alongside the midfielder during their time together at Santiago Bernabeu, convinced the player to make this jump. Others allege that it was simply due to the money as the Red Devils offered him a significant pay raise in what will likely be his final few years at the top of his game.
However, Varane has offered insight into Casemiro's decision. On the back of his impressive display in that 2-1 victory over Klopp's men, the Frenchman revealed that he played no part in this move, arguing that the Brazilian joined Erik ten Hag's side simply due to the midfielder's desire for a new challenge.
"Very excited, I know his quality very well," Varane revealed his thoughts on this transfer to PA (as per Marca).
"He can bring this balance on the team and his mentality.
"He's a warrior, so I think he will really enjoy the English football. I know him.
"I think it was a perfect night for him to meet Old Trafford because the atmosphere was absolutely amazing, and he brings a victory so it's nice.
"He doesn't need my help to make his choice. I know exactly what he feels and why he's coming here after what he lived in Madrid.
"He needs a new challenge. I know exactly why he chose this club.
"It's a similar process that I had so obviously I wish him the best and I'm speaking with him a lot, but he didn't need me to make his choice."
As mentioned earlier, Casemiro played no part in Monday's victory over Liverpool, instead watching the gallant display from his new teammates from the stands. However, the summer signing is expected to make his debut this weekend when the English giants visit Southampton on Saturday. The two interesting questions are will he start, and if he does, who will partner the South American in Ten Hag's midfield?
