Overview

• Casemiro has started all five Europa League knockout matches, including a standout performance in the 3-0 semi-final first-leg win over Athletic Bilbao, where he scored the opening goal.
• Ruben Amorim revamped United's system, reducing Casemiro's pressing demands by using three defenders and high wing-backs, allowing him to focus on his strengths as a deep-lying midfielder.
• After being benched for nine matches earlier in the season, Casemiro worked on his fitness and running patterns, with analytics guiding his physical improvement and resurgence.
• Amorim has praised Casemiro's professionalism and leadership, highlighting him as a role model for teammates like Manuel Ugarte, who has credited the Brazilian as a mentor on and off the pitch.
• Casemiro’s contract includes a 25% wage increase if United secure Champions League football by winning the Europa League, underscoring the stakes of their European campaign.