Casemiro has made a surprise prediction for the 2025 Ballon d’Or which might not please Manchester United supporters.
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro knows all about playing alongside world-class players and Ballon d’Or winners throughout his career.
The Brazilian international has had a stunning career of his own, with five Champions League winners medals and plenty of other silverware.
Along the way, he has played alongside five different winners of the Ballon d’Or; football’s most prestigious individual award – the most famous being Cristiano Ronaldo.
Casemiro also briefly played alongside Ronaldinho and Kaka at international level while teaming up with Luka Modric and Karim Benzema at Real Madrid.
Casemiro makes surprise Ballon d’Or winner prediction
Casemiro, despite not being a winner of the award, knows exactly what is needed to be deserving of the Ballon d’Or and he was asked who he believes should win the award.
Ousmane Dembélé is the favourite right now after winning the Champions League and Lamine Yamal is also being considered after a wonderful season.
But the United midfielder actually believes that Mohamed Salah of Liverpool should win the Ballon d’Or, which isn’t something that those at Old Trafford want to hear.
“For me, it’s very difficult. But in my opinion, in this moment for me, Salah. He’s the best player with his impact in this game,” responded Casemiro when asked by British GQ.
“He scores so much, assists so much. I think Liverpool didn’t win this trophy, for example the Champions League or another trophy, because he dropped off a little in the second part of the season.
“But for me, the most balanced in the season is Salah.”
Casemiro’s bold United prediction
Even though it’s a painful prediction for a United player to make, Casemiro’s stance isn’t entirely surprising. Salah, like him, might not be the most beautiful footballer in the world but is extremely efficient. That is probably something Casemiro admires.
To get back on the good side of United fans, Casemiro made a bold claim during that same interview when asked who will win the Premier League next season.
“Manchester United,” was his answer, and while he can’t really say anything else, it is what you want to hear from United players.
Even if the prospects are unrealistic, United have to aim for the top as they enter a new season and period for the club. Realistically, no fan is expecting that to happen, but the players have to strive towards that target.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.