MADRID – Brazilian midfielder Casemiro wept on Monday in a touching farewell to Real Madrid after a nine-year winning career with the La Liga club.
“When I got here my wife and I didn’t know anyone. We were alone and built our success story in this city together, I played for Real Madrid’s second team and struggled to make it to the first team. I learned a lot about the values of this club.”
“I’ve won a lot of titles here but I feel very proud to come here and work every day,” added the 30-year-old, who won three La Liga titles, the Copa del Rey and five Champions League titles among many others.
Casemiro thanked his teammates, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, for their support.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez praised Casemiro for all he did for the club.
“You have been a role model for everyone every day all these years,” said Perez. “I have made a decision about your future and we have to respect it. You will always be a hero in the eyes of the fans of the club, you will go to a great club. The legendary Manchester United, but wherever you are you will always be an ambassador for Real Madrid, you will always be.” One of the family. When you come back one day we will remember these moments. Thank you and this club will always be your second home.”
On Friday, Real and United confirmed their agreement on Casemiro’s transfer. British media reported that United had reached an agreement worth about 70 million euros ($70.06 million) to sign the player.
Casemiro added: “I want to take on new challenges. I want to play in a different competition in a different country and in a different culture. It was the most difficult decision of my life but I am excited about what awaits me.”
Casemiro is expected to be introduced to United’s media and fans later today when they host Liverpool at Old Trafford.
United lost their first two Premier League matches this season.