Casemiro's brutal revenge tackle on Andy Robertson

Casemiro is yet to kick a ball for Manchester United, but he’s already endeared himself to their fans – by clattering Liverpool’s Andrew Robertson with a hefty challenge.

The lack of a physical presence in midfield and the lack of fight in the players has long been a criticism of United amid their recent struggles. But they may well have solved that problem by signing Casemiro from Real Madrid in a deal worth a reported fee of £60million.

During United’s 4-0 drubbing from Liverpool back in April, Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville praised Red Devils youngster Hannibal Mejbri for getting stuck in when he was introduced.

“To be fair at least the kid’s showing something,” former United right-back Neville said from the commentary box.

“Honestly, it takes a young kid to come on and show the rest of them how to sprint to the ball and put a challenge in. I’m actually proud of him. Maybe he doesn’t like the idea of Liverpool passing around him, I wish the others were the same.”

United should certainly get that from Casemiro, who has won five Champions League with Real Madrid. The Brazilian started in the 2018 and 2022 final victories against Liverpool, and he has no shortage of experience against top Premier League sides in recent seasons.

The 30-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.

“First and foremost, the guy’s a winner,” former United defender Rio Ferdinand said, speaking on his YouTube channel.

“He knows how to win, he’s been integral in everything positive about Real Madrid in recent years.

“One of the main guys alongside the likes of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema, Cristiano [Ronaldo] before that, [Sergio] Ramos, [Raphael] Varane.

“He was one of the main guys. You watch him in the big games. When the big games come along, this guy performs. He knows what he’s doing, he’s there.”

Following the announcement of Casemiro’s signing, Manchester United fan accounts have unearthed a memorable moment from Liverpool’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Los Blancos in 2021.

The edited clip shows James Milner put in a robust challenge on Karim Benzema. That was followed by Casemiro getting revenge for his Real Madrid team-mate by absolutely wiping out Liverpool left-back Robertson – right under Jurgen Klopp’s nose.

Casemiro then squared up to Robertson, who wasn’t too impressed by the challenge. Both players were subsequently shown bookings. The match ended up goalless, with Madrid progressing after a 3-1 first-leg victory in the Spanish capital.

The midfielder was never sent off in 336 appearances for Madrid, despite being known to put in some meaty challenges.