Real Madrid: 5 Man of The Match candidates against Valencia

Carlos Casemiro

I have said this before and I’ll say it again. As much as I would love for Casemiro to have some rest, it is very likely that he will start in the clash. It is going to be a very difficult game for Real Madrid, but if they want to win the game, Carlos Casemiro has to be the obvious choice as a starter.

The Brazilian is a top defensive midfielder, arguably the best in this position. He fills the gaps in Real Madrid’s midfield to help midfielders like Luka Modric play a more attacking role. The 29-year-old has some impressive statistics as he manages to complete 2.6 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 1 Assist, and 1.2 clearances per game in the five matches he has featured so far.

Apart from this, Casemiro is very dominating in the air (especially during the set-pieces) as he has won eight duels in the five games. He can also contribute in the attack to help Real Madrid win the game.

He needs rest, doesn’t he? So, he can later be subbed off in the game so that he gets some rest, with Antonio Blanco being a possible replacement, who can also play in the mid-week game against RCD Mallorca. But that does not mean that Casemiro cannot be a contender for the Man of The Match award.