Casemiro fires a sharp jab at Jamie Carragher after his ‘game has left him’ comment
Casemiro has been a key player for Manchester United under Michael Carrick, putting in some great performances in the second half of the season to help the team qualify for the Champions League. The Brazilian midfielder has already said he will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season, and despite playing better recently, he won’t change his mind about leaving.
Earlier in the season, Jamie Carragher criticized Casemiro during a Sky Sports talk. The 2005 Champions League winner said, “I always remember the saying ‘leave the football before the football leaves you.’ The football has left him. At this top level, he should call it a day. He’s too good to be performing like that and getting laughed at by Crystal Palace. He needs to move on.”
But Casemiro probably felt good after his strong showing in United’s win against Liverpool last weekend. It gave him a chance to respond to Carragher’s comments. In an interview with TNT Sport Brazil, Casemiro addressed Carragher’s words and even took a little jab at Liverpool. The 34-year-old said, “People say whatever they want on TV. I don’t get involved in that. But maybe it’s normal, because I won two Champions League titles over his team. Maybe he still has some bitterness.”
He added, “I respect his opinion. I don’t hold any grudges. The important thing is he realized he was wrong and changed his mind. That’s what matters.”
Casemiro also opened up about being tired of the constant media pressure and how he avoids social media completely. He said, “Nowadays, everyone has an opinion and wants to go viral. Everyone thinks they know football and are stars. If you win, you’re the best; if you lose, you’re the worst. But football isn’t always like that. That’s why I don’t even have social media on my phone. Everyone just wants attention now.”
The five-time Champions League winner also shared his thoughts on Michael Carrick since he became Manchester United’s interim manager in January. Although no decision has been made about the permanent manager, Casemiro believes Carrick deserves a shot after guiding the team back into the Champions League. He said, “He came in as interim manager but handled tough games really well. He knows the club and understands what Manchester United is about. He carries himself with class and truly represents the club. For me, he should stay for many years. He really deserves it. When you work with him every day, you can see that.”