Erik ten Hag: Casemiro is raising the limits at Manchester United

Erik ten Hag has let his feelings for Casemiro known, in his latest appreciation for the midfielder, as he emphasised the player “raising the limits for Manchester United.”

When Manchester United bought Casemiro in the summer, there were queries about his motivation to come to Old Trafford and whether he could sustain the ability that has held him in high regard for the last decade — from leaving the Champions League holders in Real Madrid to a team not even in Europe’s elite competition. 

If any doubted his ability, they’ve been swayed by that opinion by now. 

Erik ten Hag’s side are from the finished product, but their stand-out performances this season have been built on their ability off-the-ball rather than on, and Casemiro has been critical to that. 

The Brazilian has filled a void many Manchester United fans have believed to be the problem area year after year. 

His arrival hasn’t just been felt on the pitch but off the pitch. His mentality has been key to the surge of form that has been seen within this United side lately. 

This, of course, should be no surprise from a player who commands the trophy cabinet that the Brazilian has — five Champions League, three LaLiga titles, three Copa del Rey and a Copa América, simply speaks for itself. 

Read More: Three Man United talking points ahead of Erik ten Hag’s Wolves press conference

Ten Hag stressed his adoration for the former Real Madrid man and let it publicly know about his early season needs for a “number six” and how Casemiro has lived up to the high expectations. 

“I am happy they [Real Madrid] did it [sold Casemiro to Manchester United]. But you also see him involved at the World Cup; he is a magnificent player. My analysis was before the start of the season, we needed a [number] six, and he is fulfilling that six position,” the Dutchman said in his embargo presser after his side’s win against Nottingham Forest. 

He added, “You need the right player, and definitely, we have the right player. I am really happy for United and for this team to have him. Because he is raising the limits from Manchester United.”

Read More: Manchester United: 3 striker alternatives to Cody Gakpo

Casemiro’s impact has been felt throughout the team, with the Brazilian’s quality shining in all facets of midfield play. 

Right now, many of the good aspects of this Ten Hag side are symbolic through his number 18.