"You know what the way is" - Manchester United star Casemiro sends message to Real Madrid debutant

Manchester United star Casemiro has sent a message to Real Madrid youngster Mario Martin after the Spanish midfielder's La Liga debut. The 20-year-old came off the bench in Los Blancos' 5-0 win against Alaves on Tuesday (May 14).

Casemiro left the Santiago Bernabeu for Old Trafford two years ago but still holds a fond relationship with the newly-crowned La Liga champions. The Brazilian midfielder offered advice to Martin following his debut by responding to his post on Instagram:

"Work, work and work. You know what the way is (Mario Martin)!"

Martin came on in the 82nd minute of his side's victory over Alaves. The Spaniard is viewed as a future superstar at the Bernabeu and Carlo Ancelotti is a huge admirer. He captains Real Madrid Castilla and he's made 77 appearances for them, registering five assists.

The seven-cap Spain U19 international has earned comparisons to Casemiro. Diario AS describes him as 'a silent leader'. They feel his mentality echoes that of the five-time UEFA Champions League winner.

Martin has a long way to go in replicating Casemiro's glorious career in which he became a hero at Madrid. He made 336 appearances, winning 18 major trophies before departing for Manchester United in August 2022 for €70.6 million.

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Manchester United's Casemiro loved playing under Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid

Casemiro (right) flourished under Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid before joining Manchester United.

Casemiro, 32, played under Ancelotti during the Italian coach's two spells at Real Madrid. The 75-cap Brazil international made 75 appearances under the Los Blancos' iconic manager, registering one goal and six assists.

The former Sao Paulo youngster admitted that Ancelotti was brought to tears when he departed the Bernabeu two years ago. He'd previously spoken about the friendship the pair share when the former AC Milan boss was linked with the Brazil job (via Football Espana):

"He is a coach I know very well, he is a friend and it was a pleasure to work with him."

Casemiro formed one of European football's most formidable midfield trios at Madrid. He linked up with Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, playing as the anchor and allowing the two playmakers to flourish in possession.

Ancelotti dubbed that trio as the best midfield in the world in December 2021 during their journey to Champions League glory. He told Diario AS they were incompatible:

"Those three make up the best midfield in the world right now... When the three of them are together there’s nobody who can compare to them."

Casemiro hasn't quite had as much joy at Manchester United amid a constantly changing midfield. He enjoyed a stellar debut season, helping the Red Devils win the Carabao Cup but his future is uncertain as he's alarmingly dropped out of form.