Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has lifted the lid on an obsession with his post-match stats by revealing the key to developing as a footballer.
Erik Ten Hag gave Casemiro his first Premier League start for United as the Reds beat Everton 2-1 at Goodison Park on Sunday night. The Brazilian rewarded the manager’s confidence in him with a man-of-the-match performance in midfield as he recovered from a shaky start.
Casemiro had the ball stolen in the build-up to Alex Iwobi’s goal after five minutes had been played, but soon put the mistake behind him as he grew into the game. After Antony brought the score to 1-1 with his third league goal in as many games, the former Real Madrid midfielder provided the assist for Cristiano Ronaldo’s 700th club goal, which turned out to be the winner for the United.
Ten Hag is a manager known for his scrupulous preparation, planning, and attention to detail. Therefore, he would have been delighted to hear Casemiro speak openly about his analysis of his own stats and regular reviews of his performances after he blew the full-time whistle.
The midfielder told the Club’s internal media: “I look at them [Statistics] Much and I enjoy it. I think I watch my games three or four times. Yes, it is the way you learn and develop by correcting mistakes. I think it’s key to continue evolving in football.
“I watch a lot of football. I’m lovin ‘it. My wife gets a little upset because there’s only football at home! Football is my passion, it is my soul and I think it has been the key to my success. I like football. I love watching football.”