Casemiro has revealed that Manchester United’s Ferguson era shaped his football education, admitting he closely studied Paul Scholes as a youngster before becoming one of Europe’s most decorated midfielders.
Speaking to DAZN in Spain in an interview, the Brazilian was asked which players influenced him growing up. While he immediately named Zinedine Zidane as his primary inspiration, the conversation quickly turned to Old Trafford and the dominance of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United.
Casemiro on Paul Scholes and Manchester United influence
For many young players of Casemiro’s generation, United’s success in the 2000s was unavoidable viewing. League titles, Champions League runs and relentless consistency under Ferguson meant their matches were broadcast globally. Casemiro was watching closely.
“In particular, especially Zidane. Of course Zidane is number one, for me he is the one I always looked at closely. But I also watched a lot of football in the period when United were winning it all, with Ferguson. So a player I liked a lot was Paul Scholes, who played a bit in my position. When he played, I watched him very closely.” — Casemiro, DAZN
The reference is significant. Scholes was widely regarded for his positional intelligence, passing range and ability to dictate tempo from deeper areas. Although Casemiro built his reputation primarily on defensive structure and balance, he clearly admired technical control and game management.
Ferguson’s United as global inspiration
Casemiro explained that as a child he absorbed everything he saw on television. United’s sustained dominance meant their style, midfield structure and winning mentality left a global imprint.
“When you are a kid, everyone on TV becomes someone you pay attention to. You are always watching a lot of football. I really enjoyed those players.” — Casemiro
Having followed Manchester United’s evolution closely over the years, it is striking how often players from abroad cite that Ferguson era as formative. The club’s reach during that period extended far beyond England, shaping the ambitions of young footballers worldwide.
Casemiro would later arrive at Old Trafford as a five-time Champions League winner, bringing elite experience and leadership to a transitional United side. However, his comments underline that before becoming a senior figure, he was a student of the game studying the details.
What this reveals about Casemiro’s mindset
The Brazilian’s admiration for Scholes highlights an often overlooked dimension of his game. While commonly described as a destroyer or defensive anchor, Casemiro has always valued positioning, timing and composure in possession.
That balance between aggression and intelligence mirrors the traits that defined United’s midfield during their most successful years. However, it remains too early to frame these comments as anything more than reflection rather than signalling future plans.
Key Insights
- Casemiro named Zinedine Zidane as his primary inspiration growing up.
- He closely studied Paul Scholes during Manchester United’s Ferguson era.
- United’s dominance in the 2000s had global influence.
- His comments highlight appreciation for intelligence and control in midfield.
- The reflection reinforces the lasting impact of Ferguson’s teams.
What’s Next?
Casemiro remains part of Manchester United’s senior leadership group, and his experience continues to be valued during key fixtures in the 2025/26 campaign.
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