'Age Is Not An Issue' For Casemiro Amid Manchester United's Challenging Season

Casemiro remains optimistic about his future at Manchester United, despite a challenging season for the team. The Brazilian midfielder, who has faced criticism regarding his age, insists that it is not a factor affecting his performance. Manchester United is currently at risk of finishing eighth in the Premier League, their lowest position in years.

Last season, Casemiro played a pivotal role in helping United secure a third-place finish and win the Carabao Cup. However, injuries have hampered his ability to build on that success this term. Critics have suggested that at 32, he may be struggling with the physical demands of the Premier League. Casemiro refutes these claims, citing examples of players excelling well into their 30s.

"I feel very well, very well," Casemiro told Sky Sports. "I feel healthy, with energy and the same mentality I always had. People talk about age, but it's been proven otherwise. Thiago Silva at 39 is still performing. Previous Ballon d'Or winners were over 34. Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City and Mo Salah at Liverpool are also great examples."

Casemiro emphasised that understanding and analysing the game are more important than focusing on age. "These are people who analyse football well and see what's happening," he said. "I'm happy here at Manchester United; they gave me the joy of enjoying the game and the Premier League."

Manchester United will conclude their Premier League season with an away match against Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday. Following this, they will face rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 25.

Casemiro believes that injuries have significantly impacted United's performance this season. "It's been a season of many sacrifices for all of us," he noted. "The injuries and players adapting have made it very hard for us."

The midfielder revealed that he was asked to play at centre-half due to the team's injury crisis. "The manager asked me to play at centre-half, and I told him I'm always available," Casemiro said. "That's how I am—committed to helping the team and coaching staff."

He highlighted the unprecedented number of injuries the team has faced. "We had over 60 or 70 injuries this season," he stated. "It's hard to think about winning a Premier League when you can't count on important players throughout the season."

As Manchester United prepares for their final matches of the season, Casemiro's resilience and commitment remain unwavering, offering hope for better days ahead.