A couple of years ago, Casemiro's move to United seemed to be adding a sad postscript to a stellar career for a man who has won five Champions League trophies. When the veteran Brazilian's number 18 went up to signal his exit as the game entered stoppage time, Old Trafford stood to applaud. That alone would give United's recruitment specialists a concern about how to replace him. As Villa were pressing for a second equaliser, he diffused danger by striding across United's box, calmly winning the ball and then working it out to a team-mate in space. "One more year," the home fans sang again as Casemiro made his way down the tunnel.

Source: BBC March 16, 2026 14:49 UTC