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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Isaac Johnson

Cheeky nutmeg and two other things spotted in Casemiro’s first Manchester United training session

Casemiro couldn’t keep a smile off his face during his first training session with his new Manchester United teammates.

The Brazilian stepped onto the Carrington turf for the first time this week following the completion of his transfer on Monday. He could make his debut against Southampton on Saturday and is already getting to know his new colleagues well.

The 30-year-old seemingly had no trouble bedding in, with former Real Madrid stars Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as countryman Fred, familiar faces. United fans will hope he can also strike up positive relationships with other players and plug the gap in defensive midfield.

READ MORE: Manchester United receive Casemiro boost ahead of Southampton fixture

Although it is widely thought he will don the No.18, there were no training jersey hints that confirmed this during the session. However, there were three other things spotted in the in-house video clip.

A nutmeg on Varane

He may be thankful for the on-field relationship he already has with Varane, but Casemiro clearly wasn’t afraid of embarrassing him in training. In a game of keep-ball, the five-time Champions League winner popped one through the legs of the Frenchman, showing his classy touch.

The grin on Varane’s face indicated he didn't mind on this occasion. He looked extremely sharp and it’s apparent that fitness won’t be an issue ahead of the weekend.

All smiles with new teammates

Casemiro was all smiles throughout the session and was seen joking with the likes of Ronaldo, Anthony Martial and Bruno Fernandes. The camp as a whole seem in a good mood following Monday’s clever win over Liverpool, further boosted by Casemiro’s arrival.

He may not be able to speak fluent English yet but laughing and joking is a universal language that everyone understands.

Getting stuck in

That said, the Brazil international wasn’t afraid to get stuck in with the odd slide tackle. United have been after a tenacious midfield engine and Casemiro showed signs of that.

Fans have been yearning for a little bit of aggression in the middle of the park, and he looks focused and ready to do battle - even in training.

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