Brazilian football legend Rivaldo has insisted that Casemiro’s transfer to Manchester United was purely motivated by financial gain and not sporting reasons.
Casemiro joined United last summer from Real Madrid in a deal worth £70m.
The five-time Champions League winner was targeted after Erik ten Hag failed in his bid to convince Frenkie de Jong to ditch Barcelona in favour of an Old Trafford switch.
Casemiro’s debut season at United was a fantastic one. The 32-year-old was crucial as he helped the Red Devils qualify for the Champions League and end a six-year trophy drought. He even scored in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley.
However, he has been unable to replicate the fine performances in his sophomore campaign in England. Casemiro now looks like a pale shadow of his former self and there’s already talk that he could be sold as soon as the transfer window opens.
He seems to be struggling with the pace and physical demands of the Premier League. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr are monitoring his situation and could swoop for him in the coming months.
For the right fee, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS would certainly be open to parting ways with the declining midfielder.
Former Barcelona and AC Milan striker Rivaldo spoke to Betfair (via EPL Index) and had his say on Casemiro’s move to United.
The 1999 Ballon d’Or winner said, “Casimiro is a great person, a friend of mine and someone I played with when I was at Sao Paulo.”
“I think he was living a beautiful story at Real Madrid, but of course, the financial side of things helped his decision.”
Rivaldo however warned against heaping the blame for United’s struggles entirely on Casemiro.
“Manchester United are in a terrible moment, with so many injuries… Casemiro is a midfield player, not a striker or defender, so people criticise him playing out of position, but in my opinion, he is not to blame at all, because Manchester United are struggling massively on their own.”
Rivaldo went on to state that players should ultimately be inspired to change clubs for professional reasons and not monetary incentives alone.
“In my opinion, in football you must be professional. Players must come in to win, regardless of what happens, regardless of the rivalry.”
Casemiro and his teammates return to action on Sunday when they host Arsenal at Old Trafford.
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