Casemiro speaks out about reduced Man Utd role and contract plan | OneFootball

Casemiro has admitted frustration over his recent lack of playing time at Manchester United, but insists he wants to help the club through this difficult period and see out his contract.

The veteran five-time Champions League winner has not generally been favoured by new head coach Ruben Amorim. His start in the defeat against Tottenham Hotspur marked only second time being named in a Premier League lineup in the last 12 games.

"I have to keep doing what I'm doing, with a lot of respect and education. Of course I'd like to play more, of course. I don't know any player who doesn't want to play and help," Casemiro told AS.

"I'd like to help the club at this time. I approach things with respect for my teammates and the technical committee. And above all, I respect United, a club to which I'm very grateful."

At 33 years of age and a shadow of the player who dominated midfield for Real Madrid at his peak, Casemiro has been heavily linked with a Saudi Pro League transfer for some time, beginning long before Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag at the Old Trafford helm this season.

But the Brazilian, under contract until 2026, appears keen not to give up and walk away, having settled with his family in north west England.

Casemiro has mainly been a substitute under Ruben Amorim / Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/GettyImages

"I have a year and a half left on my contract and I'd like to fulfil it here in Manchester," he said. "I'm comfortable here and so is my family. They've adapted, we speak English. I'm very grateful to the Old Trafford fans and to the club. I'm happy at club level.

"Happy [on the bench]? Of course not. That's another thing."

Speaking at the end of January, Amorim explained why Casemiro has often been overlooked in the Premier League in recent months, implying it is down to the player's physical attributes that have diminished with age.

"Sometimes it's a system fit - sometimes it's the player's [form].We know that Casemiro nowadays has other qualities. He's intelligent, understands the game and knows where the ball is going to be. But, we are in a league where there is a big intensity difference," the head coach said.

"Therefore I feel our team needs players with high intensity and sometimes we don't have them. We all know Casemiro's qualities and everything he has won, so I have nothing to add to that. It's just a selection choice."