In the ongoing debate over who stands as the greatest footballer of this generation, Manchester United’s midfielder Casemiro offers a unique perspective, having shared the pitch with both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. In a 2023 interview with Brazilian magazine Placar, Casemiro lauded both players but highlighted Messi’s indelible impact on the sport.
Reflecting on his numerous encounters with Messi during his tenure at Real Madrid, Casemiro acknowledged the Argentine’s unparalleled talent. “Lionel Messi left his mark. You can’t deny it,” he remarked. “He was always a rival, with Barcelona and with Argentina. There was no way to escape it. But those who like football, like Messi. It was a pleasure playing against him.”
Casemiro emphasized the collective effort required to contain Messi on the field. “I could never stop him on my own,” he admitted. “It was impossible. I needed help from Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Sergio Ramos… but just me, impossible. He was unstoppable.”
Despite his admiration for Messi, Casemiro also expressed deep respect for his former teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo. “I had the pleasure of seeing Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Neymar, who are the three greatest of my generation,” he stated. “What they both did is unrepeatable. In my generation, the best were Cristiano and Messi… they did a lot for football, and they changed it.”
Casemiro drew parallels between the influence of these players and that of renowned coach Pep Guardiola. “Just like Guardiola changed football with the tiki-taka, these two changed it too,” he observed. “Fifty goals a season, and it seemed like something normal. Those two players will stay in our memories.”
While Casemiro refrained from declaring a definitive answer in the Messi vs. Ronaldo debate, his insights underscore the profound respect he holds for both athletes. His reflections highlight the unique challenges and honors of competing against and alongside these football legends.
As of February 2025, Casemiro continues to be a pivotal figure in Manchester United’s midfield. The team faces upcoming Premier League matches, including an away game against Everton FC on February 22, 2025, and a home fixture against Ipswich Town on February 26, 2025. These matches are crucial as United aims to improve its standing in the league.
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