Casemiro says there is a difference in mentality between Real Madrid and Manchester United with the latter having to “adapt and grow” to reach the same levels as the Spanish giants.
The Brazil midfielder joined United from Madrid in August 2022 but, after impressing initially, has looked a pale imitation of the player that won three La Ligas and five Champions League titles at the Santiago Bernabéu.
He started as United lost 1-0 to Tottenham yesterday, a result that leaves Ruben Amorim’s men mired in 15th place in the Premier League in the midst of a run of six wins in their last 15 games in all competitions.
Defeat in north London.#MUFC || #TOTMUN
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 16, 2025
Asked if the mentality was the same at United as it was in Madrid, the 32-year-old told AS: “Of course, there’s a difference. Real Madrid has a very strong winning mentality ingrained in its history. The culture is all about achieving greatness, about being the best.
“Manchester United also has a rich history and incredible fans, but Real Madrid is built to win Champions League titles consistently. At United, there’s an undeniable drive, but it takes a bit more time to return to that level of European dominance. It’s about adapting and growing to reach those heights once again. However, the commitment and professionalism are the same.”
Casemiro still hopeful of ending season with a trophy
United remain in the Europa League and FA Cup, a title they won last season, and Casemiro says trophies are still the ambition this year.
“No, it’s not [the same club it was 20 years ago] but it’s still a big club,” he added. “It’s going through a transition, like every team does at certain points in their history.
“When I arrived, I saw the passion of the fans, and that was something that touched me deeply. We might not be in the same period of dominance as in previous decades, but Manchester United has always been a team that fights and stands for something. It’s a big challenge, and we’ll keep fighting for trophies, just like we did last season.”
Brazilian not surprised by Madrid’s Etihad comeback
Madrid are still in this season’s Champions League and hold a 3-2 advantage over Manchester City ahead of the second leg of their knockout phase playoff game at the Bernabéu on Wednesday night.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men were trailing 2-1 at the Etihad last week before two late goals saw them turn the tie around.
Casemiro said: “It wasn’t a surprise for me. Madrid does that almost all the time, and everyone knows the history of this team and what they’re capable of.
“Madrid always plays until the end and never gives up. Even when losing 2-1, I knew there was still plenty of the game left to play. And that’s with City and a great coach like [Pep] Guardiola. But they did it.
“Now, the return will be at the Bernabéu with a great result from the 3-2. But it’s not going to be easy. With Guardiola, they’re strong, but the Bernabéu on those Champions League nights is very special. I wish all the luck in the world to my former teammates, not only because of my rivalry with City, but mostly for Madrid. Hopefully, they’ll make it to the knockout stages.”
