27 February 2023 , 19:02
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Casemiro claimed Manchester United' s Carabao Cup triumph vindicated his decision to make the switch from Real Madrid.
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who joined United from Real last summer for £70million, scored the opener at Wembley as Erik ten Hag's side overcame Newcastle 2-0. Victory ended United's six-year wait for a trophy and Casemiro – a five-time Champions League winner with Real – said it showed he was right to make the move to England.
"I left a great club, came to England and people wondered why,” said Casemiro. “Moments like these are the answer. We all know this is only the beginning, but it doesn't mean we can't be happy.
“It's one more trophy for me and I always welcome it, regardless of the competition. I celebrated a lot because I'm enjoying it here.”
Casemiro said United's win underlined the progress made in Ten Hag's first season in charge and claimed their rivals know the Red Devils are on the way back. "We're growing and gaining respect in this country, but it's early days and we have to keep improving,” said Casemiro.
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“We can't hide, there are teams ahead of us like Manchester City and Arsenal, so we have to deal with this reality. But we're understanding our manager's philosophy and we will keep growing.
Casemiro lifted his first trophy as a Man Utd player at Wembley (Getty Images)Who was your man-of-the-match in Man Utd's Carabao Cup success? Share your thoughts in the comments below
“My history has always been about winning since I was a kid, so here it isn't any different. I'm here to help my team-mates and Manchester United.”
Casemiro celebrated a tackle on Newcastle's Joelinton late in the game with the same fervour as his goal and said winning the ball means as much to him as scoring. "Who already knows me understands I go after the ball as if it's a plate of food,” said Casemiro.
“This is my character, that didn't happen because it was a final or whatever. I attack every ball as if it was the last one."
One man who gave their approval to the Brazilian midfielder during his display at Wembley was Red Devils' icon Roy Keane. Casemiro was pictured arguing with teammate Bruno Fernandes shortly after the final whistle - something that impressed the Irishman.
Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: "Are they arguing there?" Keane said on Sky Sports. "Yep, maybe. I like that. I don't know what they're arguing about, but it shows they care."
Casemiro will be hoping to maintain his impact for the Red Devils as they attempt to continue their cup success under Ten Hag. United take on Premier League rivals West Ham in the fifth round of the FA Cup in midweek before tackling Liverpool at Anfield next weekend.