Real Madrid legend opens up about Mbappe, Vinicius, Saudi links and Ballon d’Or controversy | OneFootball

Casemiro, the former Real Madrid midfielder now playing for Manchester United, is widely considered part of one of the greatest midfield trios in the club’s history, alongside Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

His departure to Manchester United in 2022 marked the end of a remarkable era for the Brazilian, who leaves behind a legacy at Madrid with five Champions League titles in his cabinet.

Reflecting on his career and the current crop of Los Blancos, Casemiro shared his thoughts in an interview with AS, particularly regarding the challenges faced by young talents like Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr. and Federico Valverde.

Starting with Mbappe

Casemiro feels Mbappe will score 40 goals. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Casemiro noted that while Mbappe is already established as one of the best, scoring consistently year after year, the younger players at Real Madrid—like Rodrygo, Militao, and Valverde—are learning to be patient.

“Yes [it’s been difficult for Mbappe], but he is already established and will give you 40 goals a year.

“Youngsters, like Rodrygo, Militao or Fede, who I admire a lot for the way he plays and gives his all, know how to wait for their moment. And it always ends up coming.

“The adaptation of the youngsters is easier with the veterans explaining to them what everything is like here.”

Vinicius, Rodrygo and Valverde went through Castilla

Casemiro spoke highly of Castilla. (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)

Casemiro recalled his time at Castilla fondly, describing it as a valuable learning experience. Even playing alongside players from Real Madrid C was a crucial moment in his career, teaching him the importance of valuing every opportunity.

“For me, it was a school of learning. Castilla is a youth team even if you come from outside. We entered through the door of Valdebebas, not the Bernabeu.”

“Being with the youngsters teaches you to value what can come. It was one of the nicest decisions in my life to accept playing for Castilla, even sharing with the lads from Real Madrid C,” he noted.

Vinicius and Ballon d’Or

Vinicius Jr. finshed second in Ballon d’Or rankings. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Casemiro also expressed surprise at Vinicius not winning the Ballon d’Or, especially considering his crucial role in helping Real Madrid win multiple titles last season.

He highlighted Vinicius’ performances in finals, particularly his goals in pivotal moments like at Wembley, and his dominance in La Liga.

While he acknowledged Rodri’s deserving win, Casemiro made it clear that if he had the vote, he would have backed Vinicius.

“Of course, I was surprised. I’m not saying that Rodri didn’t deserve it because that’s the decision of each of those who voted, but Vini’s importance last season in winning all the titles with Madrid, being decisive with goals in the finals, especially at Wembley.

Advice to Vini

Casemiro adviced Vinicius to focus on football. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

On the topic of Vinicius’ character, Casemiro shared some advice. He noted that the constant provocation directed at Vinicius often pulls him out of his game, but stressed that if Vinicius remains focused and stays true to his style of play, he can become the best in the world.

“I would tell him, as I told him when we played against Brazil, that “there is only one way to stop you: by taking you out of the game.”

“That is the only way to stop him. If Vini is focused on the game, focused on his football, he is the best in the world.

“With the problems he has suffered, I am very sad. My children are Spanish and I was sad. Despite all that, he must focus on playing football.”

Saudi Arabia links

Casemiro gave his opinion about Vinicius’ Saudi links. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Finally, Casemiro reflected on the potential allure of multimillion-euro offers from Saudi Arabia, which may tempt a young player like Vinicius.

While acknowledging that such decisions are deeply personal, Casemiro, as a fan, advised his former teammate to consider the long-term value of building a legacy in football.

He reminded him that despite the success he’s already achieved, there is much more to be written in his career. From a fan’s perspective, Casemiro hoped Vinicius would remain at Real Madrid to continue making history with the club.

“If I were to speak to you as a fan, I would tell you to look at how important it is to make history in football, in your career.

“You have already done so up to now, but at your age, you have a long way to go to continue making it. But it is a very personal decision. As a fan, the nice thing is to continue watching you with Real Madrid,” he added.