Harry Maguire sends Man Utd clear message about 'brilliant' team-mate who faces summer axe
Man Utd defender Harry Maguire singled out Casemiro for praise after Thursday's 3-0 win at Athletic Club.
Harry Maguire has heaped praise on Casemiro for his standout performance in Manchester United's emphatic 3-0 Europa League victory over Athletic Club. The Red Devils took a giant stride towards the final with a dominant first-leg display at San Mames, and Casemiro continued his renaissance on his return to Spain.
Despite early pressure from the hosts, United were in control by half-time with a brace from Bruno Fernandes and a goal from Casemiro, who headed in after a fine setup by Maguire. The Brazilian midfielder was a force to be reckoned with, winning tackles, clearing danger, maintaining an 84 per cent pass completion rate, and touching the ball 109 times.
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Maguire, speaking to MUTV after full-time, said: "I think Casemiro was brilliant tonight.
"I definitely believe he was the Man of the Match. He was everywhere, and he scored a crucial goal as well.
"I think the header was a lot more difficult than he made it look; there was spin on the ball from Manu's header. It was a great, controlled finish."
Casemiro is entering the final year of his United contract, sparking uncertainty about his future beyond this summer.
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The 33-year-old could have suitors ready to test Ruben Amorim's resolve at the end of the campaign.
But Casemiro is proving his worth after a forgettable 2023/24 season, and his role in the dressing room has become clear, especially in Europe.
The United captain also commended the team's overall performance, particularly highlighting their efficiency and defensive solidity.
"I think first and foremost, we were more clinical," Maguire continued.
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"In recent games, we hadn't been clinical enough, and we hadn't defended our box well enough. Goals change games, and goals win football matches.
"They started really well, the intensity of the stadium was unbelievable; the fans were brilliant for them, and they started really well and put us under a lot of pressure.
"But we defended our box well, and that is what you have got to do at times."
This article was first published on the Manchester Evening News
