Casemiro has drawn comparisons between Arsenal's current trajectory and Real Madrid's Champions League-winning era, suggesting that Mikel Arteta's side is on the verge of securing a Premier League title due to their ability to retain key players.
The Brazilian midfielder, who is set to leave Manchester United at the end of his contract this season, spoke to Rio Ferdinand about the importance of squad continuity. Arsenal currently sit five points clear of Manchester City with two games remaining, though Pep Guardiola's side have a game in hand. The Gunners face Burnley and Crystal Palace in their final league matches, while City host Crystal Palace on Tuesday night. Arsenal also have the chance to win the Champions League, facing Paris Saint-Germain in the final on May 30.
Casemiro's Real Madrid Comparison
Reflecting on his time at Real Madrid, where he won five Champions League titles, Casemiro recalled a conversation with Luka Modric after their second triumph. 'I remember we won the second Champions League and the celebrations were unbelievable and Luka said, look, guys, we need one, two more. I replied, what?! No, no, this team, it’s the best moment with the players, we need one or two more,' Casemiro told Ferdinand. 'I remember it perfectly. It was three more but talking in that moment it was crazy.'
When Ferdinand noted that Madrid were fortunate to keep their squad together, Casemiro agreed: 'Yeah, it’s very important, very important. Doesn’t matter if we win or lose in the final, for example Arsenal, I don’t know if it’s this season or next season, he [Arteta] will win.'
Premier League Title Prediction
Asked directly if he thinks Arsenal will win the title, Casemiro responded: 'Of course, it’s too close, it’s too close. It’s the same with Paris [Saint-Germain]. Four years ago, they lost to us, Messi played there, Neymar, and why did they lose? Because they lost to Madrid [who had a target].'
The 34-year-old's comments highlight the belief that Arsenal's consistency and retention of key players under Arteta mirror the foundations of Madrid's success. With the title race still tight, Casemiro's prediction adds weight to Arsenal's ambitions.
