Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim is rewriting the script on Casemiro’s turbulent tenure at Old Trafford. Once labeled “overpaid” and “not good enough” by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Brazilian midfielder seemed destined for the exit. But Amorim, United’s candid head coach, is defying critics—and his own early doubts—by unlocking a resurgence in the 33-year-old. Amid injury crises and mounting skepticism, Amorim’s tactical tinkering has unearthed a version of Casemiro that’s silencing detractors.
The secret? A blend of patience, positioning, and trust. Here’s how the Portuguese tactician turned a fading star into a linchpin.
“I’m Learning How to Use Him”: Ruben Amorim’s Tactical Masterstroke with Casemiro
Amorim didn’t sugarcoat Casemiro’s struggles earlier this season. “He can play so much better,” the manager admitted bluntly. But necessity breeds innovation. With Manchester United’s squad ravaged by injuries, Amorim had no choice but to lean into the veteran’s experience—and what followed was a revelation.
“I think I’m also learning how to use players like Casemiro,” Ruben Amorim revealed after United’s 4-1 dismantling of Real Sociedad. “We’re trying to put our players in the best positions, and that helps us a lot.” For Casemiro, that meant a tweaked role: less box-to-box hustle, more deep-lying control.
The shift paid off instantly. Amorim noted, “Casemiro gave us a little bit of calm.” By anchoring the midfield, the five-time Champions League winner allowed Bruno Fernandes to roam closer to goal, where he’s “dangerous.” Even in a grueling clash against Newcastle, where Casemiro’s pace waned, his composure in buildup play proved vital.
Why this matters:
Redemption Arc: Once written off, Casemiro’s resurgence under Amorim highlights the power of adaptable coaching.
Tactical Flexibility: Ruben Amorim’s willingness to evolve his system—prioritizing positional roles over rigid tactics—has maximized aging talent.
Leadership Void Filled: With young stars inconsistent, Casemiro’s experience stabilizes a fractured squad.
Amorim’s approach isn’t just about salvaging Casemiro’s career—it’s a blueprint for managing transition periods. The Brazilian’s contract runs until 2026, and while summer exit rumors swirl, Amorim’s faith could rewrite his legacy. “It’s too soon to talk about next season,” Casemiro insists, but his revival suggests he’s not done yet.
For Manchester United, this isn’t merely a tactical win. It’s a statement that even “overpaid” veterans can thrive under the right guidance. As Ruben Amorim put it: “You can feel they have more freedom.” In a squad craving identity, that freedom might just be the key to unlocking greatness.