Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has expressed his willingness to continue playing as a centre-half, despite it not being his preferred position. The Brazilian has been forced to fill in at the back due to injury issues with the club’s regular centre-halves.
Speaking to the club’s website, Casemiro admitted that while he has played in the role a few times during his time at Real Madrid, he sees himself as a central midfielder. However, he is more than willing to adapt and help the team whenever needed.
“I mean I’ve done it probably two or three times, in my time at Real Madrid, playing centre-half,” Casemiro said. “But everyone knows that I am a central midfielder. It’s not a role that I like to do but, you know what, I do it with the absolute best will in the world.
“As soon as the manager asks the question: ‘Would you be able to play in that role?’ Of course, I would. Absolutely. I do it to help the team, the manager, the clubs, the fans. That is what you do. And I do it, as I say, because I’m delighted to help out if I can.
“I know it’s something which, you use the word ‘adapted’, and it’s something that I’ve tried to do to help the side but, yeah, I’m a central midfield player. All my life, all my career. Obviously, that is where I prefer to play.”
Casemiro also acknowledged that playing further forward in midfield would be his preference, but he understands the importance of fulfilling different roles for the benefit of the team.
“Obviously, I prefer to be further forward in midfield but, if the rest of the side was as per normal, it would be easier to slot in, I’m sure,” he added. “But, as I repeat, I do it. I do it to help my teammates.
“Everyone knows I’m not a centre-half. I’m a holding midfielder, that is what I’ve been all my life but my philosophy is you know when you’re in a team, you do things to help that team and help your teammates out. That’s the key.
“There are different types of leaders. You know, there are leaders who show and lead by example. I guess that’s maybe what I’ve been doing. Leading by example. I mentioned before that the manager asked me to fulfill that role in defense and I did it with great pleasure.
“You know there might be the odd error because I’m not a centre-half but it’s still doing your best for my teammates. I know they’ve been going all out and trying really hard to help me out there on the field in this new role.”
Casemiro’s selfless attitude and willingness to adapt have been praised by fans and teammates alike. Despite not being a natural centre-half, he has shown great commitment to the team and has become a valuable asset in times of need.
