Casemiro has hit back at accusations that he is only moving to Manchester United for a payday as he bid a tearful farewell to Real Madrid.
On Monday, the Brazilian midfielder held a press conference to announce his exit from the Bernabeu in a £70million transfer to Old Trafford.
Reports suggest Casemiro will almost double his wages as part of the deal, from £180,000-a-week to £350,000-a-week - something he insists was not part of his thinking in accepting the switch.
“I think there are a few who don’t know me,” he stated. “It’s not about money. They’re wrong. That’s not the case.”
He added: “After the Champions League final I had the feeling that my cycle was over. I’m honest. After the holidays, with a clear head, my feeling was the same.
“It wasn’t that fast. I had already spoken with the club as soon as we finished the Champions League. My wife supported me from the beginning. My family was always by my side in this decision.”
Casemiro, 30, is confident that United can return to their former glory and he stated his belief that Cristiano Ronaldo must stay at the club having forced a move away earlier in the summer.
“People should not forget the club I'm going to,” he added. “One of the biggest teams in the world and one that can compete with the greatness of Real Madrid, although right now it isn’t.
“I haven’t spoken to Cristiano, I hope he stays because he’s one of the best players of all time.
“I want to bring my values ââto Manchester United, everything that Real Madrid have taught me, to win every day, in every training session. I want to experience the Premier League. At 30 years old, I am in the best moment of my career. I’m enjoying everything I have.”
