Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr paid his respect to Casemiro when talking up his Brazil colleagues.
At the upcoming 2026 World Cup, Brazil will be looking to win the competition for the first time since 2002.
There will be Manchester United involvement, with Casemiro and Matheus Cunha set to represent the Red Devils at the tournament.
During the March international break, Brazil play a glamour friendly against fellow contenders France, and ahead of the game Vinicius Jr spoke at a press conference.
Casemiro faces Senegal in an international friendly
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Vinicius Jr on Casemiro
Vinicius Jr responded to a question about Neymar’s omission from the Brazil squad amid his battle with fitness, an ongoing topic of debate for the Selecao.
He talked up the quality in the squad without Neymar, while paying his respect to the former Barcelona and PSG ace.
He told AS: “In recent seasons I’ve been one of the best, Raphinha too… Casemiro , let’s not even talk about him. He has a wealth of experience.
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“The pressure on Ney is normal. I’m biased, Ney is one of my idols. He’s doing everything he can to be 100% fit and return to the national team.”
Casemiro is Brazil’s captain after earning a recall from Carlo Ancelotti during the qualifiers.
Vinicius Jr played alongside Casemiro for Real Madrid, winning the Champions League together under Ancelotti. This alone will give them confidence of World Cup success – with or without Neymar.
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Casemiro and Cunha set for two fixtures
Casemiro and Matheus Cunha are both in the US, for two fixtures being held in Boston and then Orlando.
The duo face an 8,700-mile round trip – although this is shorter than the 13,200 miles Amad must travel with the Ivory Coast.
Brazil vs France: Thursday March 26, 8pm
Brazil vs Croatia: Wednesday April 1, 1am
Brazil are expecting to take both games seriously, although United fans will be hoping the duo get a rest at some stage.
The club’s next game is at home to Leeds on Monday April 13.
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