The Brazilian midfielder reached 100 Premier League appearances for Manchester United in style, dominating the midfield as the Red Devils defeated 10-man Tottenham 2-0 at Old Trafford
On Saturday afternoon at Old Trafford, Casemiro wrote his name into Manchester United folklore by reaching a significant personal milestone while simultaneously driving his side to a fourth consecutive Premier League victory.
The 33-year-old Brazilian marked his 100th Premier League appearance for United with a commanding midfield display that showed why his renaissance this season has been one of the most compelling storylines at the club.
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Despite being on the receiving end of a reckless challenge that saw Tottenham captain Cristian Romero sent off, Casemiro dusted himself up and delivered a performance that belied his years.
A CENTURY OF UPS AND DOWNS
The milestone offers a moment to reflect on the former Real Madrid star's remarkable journey in English football. Since his arrival at Old Trafford in 2022, Casemiro's time in the Premier League has been nothing short of a rollercoaster.
There have been spells where he looked every inch the world-class operator who won five Champions League titles in Madrid, an indispensable anchor around whom United's midfield functioned.
But there have also been periods of struggle, where his age and declining mobility raised serious questions about his long-term future at the highest level.
Yet here he stands, 100 games later, in the form of his United career and looking every bit a player destined for Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad.
TOTTENHAM UNDONE BY DISCIPLINE AND QUALITY
The match itself turned decisively in United's favour in the 29th minute when Romero lunged in with a dangerous, studs-up challenge on Casemiro. Referee Michael Oliver had no hesitation in brandishing a straight red card, leaving Spurs to play over an hour with 10 men.
United capitalised on their numerical advantage nine minutes later. A cleverly-worked short corner routine involving Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo created space for Bryan Mbeumo, who finished clinically with his left foot to break the deadlock.
The second half saw United control proceedings with the assurance of a side growing in confidence under interim manager Michael Carrick. The points were secured in the 81st minute when Fernandes ghosted in unmarked at the far post to convert a Diogo Dalot cross, sealing a comfortable 2-0 victory.
What made Casemiro's century appearance all the more impressive was his resilience. Despite being the victim of Romero's wild challenge, the Brazilian played nearly the entire match, only making way for Manuel Ugarte in the 86th minute.
His performance was a microcosm of his entire season. Casemiro has recorded more tackles and duels won than any other United player this campaign, transforming himself from a player many had written off into one of the first names on the team sheet.
CARRICK'S UNBEATEN RUN CONTINUES
The victory extends Michael Carrick's remarkable unbeaten streak as interim manager, with United having now defeated Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham and Tottenham in succession.
Bruno Fernandes also reached a personal milestone, with his goal marking his 200th goal contribution for Manchester United since his debut in 2020. The Portuguese midfielder's consistency and quality continue to be vital to United's ambitions.
There was also a touching moment for the club's supporters as 18-year-old Tyler Fletcher, son of United legend Darren Fletcher, made his first-team debut as a late substitute for Mainoo.
For Casemiro, reaching 100 Premier League appearances represents vindication. Critics have questioned his legs, his pace, his ability to adapt to the relentless tempo of English football. Yet the Brazilian has answered emphatically, producing some of his finest football in a United shirt at a time when the club needed him most.
As the rain continued to fall at Old Trafford and the final whistle confirmed another three points, Casemiro walked off to a standing ovation. One hundred games completed, and with performances like this, there could be many more to come before he says farewell in the summer.
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