Casemiro volleys United to verge of Champions League

Casemiro has already experienced the humiliation of participating in the Europa League for an entire season, which in itself is a significant insult. Such tournaments are a personal offense to players of Casemiro’s caliber, considering his collection of five Champions League medals. Playing in the Europa League felt like a fate worse than returning to the continent’s secondary competition.

Throughout this season, the 31-year-old has been instrumental in elevating Manchester United back to the elite echelons of European football. In the absence of the unwell Marcus Rashford, Casemiro once again stepped up to the plate. His contributions went beyond his usual attributes, including robust tackles and precise passes that have become synonymous with United’s campaign. On this occasion, he even delivered a match-winning goal of Champions League quality.

Casemiro’s performance showcased cunning, leadership, and exceptional vision. While his acrobatic overhead kick was the highlight of United’s triumph against Bournemouth, it was his subsequent leadership and defensive solidity that proved equally vital.

It is important to note that Casemiro did not single-handedly drive United closer to securing their place in the top four. He received assistance from Raphaël Varane, another player who clearly belongs in the Champions League, as well as from the oft-criticized David De Gea guarding United’s goal.

Earlier in the season, after a humiliating defeat against Brentford while wearing the same lime-green kit seen in this match, Casemiro texted his agent with a promise to rectify the situation. While he cannot claim to have fully fulfilled that promise until Champions League football is officially secured, United are on the verge of achieving it following Liverpool’s draw with Aston Villa.

With two games remaining, United have accumulated 69 points, while Liverpool have played an extra match and possess 66 points. Ten Hag’s team merely requires a single point from their upcoming matches against Chelsea and Fulham. Crucially, both of these games will be held at Old Trafford.