Fred has detailed a conversation held with Casemiro before his arrival at Manchester United last summer.
Casemiro joined the Red Devils in the closing stages of the transfer window and was revealed to fans through a pre-match walkout at Old Trafford to greet fans for the first time.
It took a short while for the 30-year-old to be a regular starter for United as he adjusted to the pace and changes of the Premier League, compared to La Liga, where he had spent the best part of his career.
Once he began to play, it became apparent just how crucial of a signing he was. His physicality, vision, passing and ability to contribute both defensively and on the attack have made him irreplaceable on the team sheet. He was recently named United’s October Player of the Month.
The five-time Champions League winner has also featured alongside fellow Brazilians Fred and Antony and the trio will likely play a key role for their national team at the forthcoming World Cup.
Fred reflects on Casemiro signing
Fred told TNT Sports: “Everyone knows he is one of the best players there, who has won a lot at Real Madrid in recent years. So he’s a very experienced guy. On the pitch he’s a great player and off the pitch, he has a huge amount of experience. He adds a lot in the locker room and it’s a pleasure to be able to play alolngsidehim, these great players here at United.”
Regarding Casemiro’s transfer, Fred admitted he knew of the deal early and likely played a part in inspiring Casemiro to join. He said: “I found out well before they announced it. A few months before, we had already talked, me and him.
“We had a nice chat, he and asked how it was, I explained everything to him, what was happening at the club, that it was not one of the best moments, but which, as I said, would be a fresh start with the arrival of a new coach. And he liked the project, thought it would be a cool project and decided to join us.
“And as I said, we are on a good path, we are winning games, we have already beaten some of the big six clubs as well. So, as I said, it’s a process and at first we are on the right path.”
