Manchester United defender Raphael Varane has expressed his excitement to play alongside new signing Casemiro and believes the midfielder's pursuit of a new challenge was a key factor in his decision to leave Real Madrid.
The 30-year-old Brazil international completed his £70m switch to the Red Devils on Monday night and was unveiled to the Old Trafford crowd before their impressive 2-1 Premier League victory against rivals Liverpool.
Varane, who played the full 90 minutes at centre-back, spent eight years with Casemiro at Real Madrid and they won 16 trophies together with the Spanish giants, including four Champions Leagues.
Casemiro ended his nine-year association with Los Blancos on a high, helping the club win the La Liga title and Champions League last season before lifting the UEFA Super Cup earlier this month.
Varane believes that Casemiro will thrive in the Premier League and insists that the midfielder did not need to be persuaded to move to Old Trafford.
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"Yeah, very excited (about Casemiro's arrival). I know perfectly his quality. He can bring this balance to the team and his mentality. He's a warrior, so I think he will really enjoy English football. I know him (laughs)," Varane told reporters on Monday via the Manchester Evening News.
"I think it was a perfect night for him to meet Old Trafford because the atmosphere was absolutely amazing, and he brings a victory so it's nice!
"I think he doesn't need my help to make his choice. I know exactly what he feels and why he's coming here after what he lived in Madrid.
"He needs a new challenge, I know exactly what he feels, and I know exactly why he chose this club. It's a similar process that I had so obviously I wish him the best and I'm speaking with him a lot, but he didn't need me to make his choice."
Speaking to the Man United's official website on his arrival at the club, Casemiro said: "The opportunity to start a new challenge at Manchester United and in the Premier League is extremely exciting.
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"I have worked with many great managers in my career and, having met with Erik [ten Hag] and heard his ideas, I can't wait to work closely with him, his staff and my new teammates in the coming years.
"I'm ending one beautiful journey in Madrid whilst starting another in Manchester as determined as ever to win football matches, win trophies and make our fans proud by bringing success to this great club.
"Everybody knows the history of Manchester United, the significance of the club around the world and what it means to its supporters. To represent United is an honour and I am ready to give everything to help the team achieve our ambitions."
Casemiro could make his debut for the Red Devils on Saturday lunchtime when they travel to St Mary's for their Premier League encounter against Southampton.
Oliver Thomas
