Just 18 months after being told to quit top-level soccer by Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, Casemiro has been hailed as a "complete player" by a Premier League rival.
The Brazilian has endured a turbulent period at Manchester United following his switch from Real Madrid in 2022. He made a strong impression during his inaugural season but found himself struggling in subsequent campaigns, with speculation at the time indicating that the Red Devils were eager to minimize their losses.
Carragher proposed that he should begin contemplating retirement with his "leave the football before the football leaves you" remark. Despite appearing as though his career was drawing to a close, Casemiro looks to have returned to his peak form this season.
The 33-year-old has been a reliable presence under Ruben Amorim, having already netted three goals during the current campaign.
And he has now received acclaim from fellow countryman and Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes.
Speaking while on international duty, he said: "Look at his experience, his titles... he's a complete player.
Casemiro's form has improved this season
Casemiro's form has improved this season (Image: Getty Images)
“His career speaks for itself. In one of my first interviews with the national team, in 2020, when I arrived, they asked if I was inspired by anyone in midfield, and I said his name, Casemiro.
"He’s also an idol there for everything he’s done, especially at Real Madrid, the five Champions League titles. A guy that everyone who plays in Brazilian midfield talks about, Casemiro is the guy we have to follow.
"So I think it’s a bit of everything, he’s a leader, certainly playing there as a number 8 is a position where I feel more comfortable, it’s a position I also play at Newcastle. I think it’s a perfect match and things are starting to go well."
Casemiro's recent performances and Guimaraes' remarks have certainly forced Liverpool icon Carragher to reconsider his previous stance.
Speaking in May 2024, he said: "I am nowhere near on a level of what that man has achieved, [winning] Champions Leagues, playing for Brazil and Real Madrid. But I always remember something when I retired myself, and there was a saying I always remember as a footballer, 'Leave the football, before the football leaves you.'
"The football has left him - at this top level. He needs to call it a day at this level of football and move."
Casemiro and United return to action when they host Everton at Old Trafford on Monday.
Amorim's squad currently occupy seventh position in the Premier League standings following an undefeated streak of five matches.