Manchester United veteran Casemiro explained why Mateo Kovacic didn’t hit his stride at Real Madrid despite his great talent.
The two midfielders were teammates at Los Blancos between 2015 and 2018. But while the Brazilian had established himself as a pillar in the middle of the park, the Croatian was a mere understudy to Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.
Mateo Kovacic eyeing a second EPL title after a difficult campaign
Kovacic ended up signing for Chelsea in 2018, where he found a more prominent role. He managed to add a fourth Champions League medal to his cabinet during his stay in West London.
In 2023, the Croatian joined Man City on a free transfer, and won his first Premier League title in his maiden campaign at the Etihad. He will have the chance to win another EPL title this season, but the most trusted betting for Premier League platforms will tell you that the Cityzens are now the underdogs, with Arsenal considered the heavy favourites.
After all, the Gunners currently lead the table with two extra points on Pep Guardiola’s team, and only two rounds remaining in the season.
On the other hand, Man Utd’s campaign is practically over. The club achieved its objective by qualifying for the Champions League. They also need a single point to confirm a Top 3 finish.
Therefore, the fanbase can now focus on giving Casemiro his due as he makes his Old Trafford swansong on Sunday against Nottingham Forest.
The Brazilian has been enjoying a remarkable campaign, prompting widespread calls of ‘one more year’. Nevertheless, the departure decision has been set in stone, so the 34-year-old is now sent to end his four-year collaboration with the Red Devils.
Casemiro explains Mateo Kovacic struggles at Real Madrid
Casemiro gave an interview to Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand, where he opened up on several topics, including his time at Real Madrid.
The midfielder insisted that finding success in the Spanish capital requires a certain mentality, one that Kovacic lacked.
“For me, the most important thing for players in Madrid is about here [points to head]. I see there, very good players, but don’t play too much because of this [head],” he told Ferdinand (via Metro).
“For example, amazing player, Mateo Kovacic. He won the Champions League with Chelsea, he plays for City, he’s an unbelievable, unbelievable player. But sometimes he plays, sometimes he doesn’t play and when he doesn’t play, he [says] “I need to play, I need to play.”
“No, you need to be strong here [head]. Sometimes he doesn’t play but stay calm, stay relaxed, because Mateo Kovacic is a top, top player, but he doesn’t stay strong here [head].
“I respect he needs to play but he has Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in front. For me, this guy is an unbelievable player. He talks after the games, “I need to play.” I know, but you need to stay calm. He goes to Chelsea, wins the Champions League, plays very well Manchester City, I have big respect for him.”
This season, Kovacic has been hampered by injuries, which have limited his role at Man City. He still has another year on his contract, so it remains to be seen if he’ll remain at the Etihad beyond the summer.
