Jose Mourinho’s former assistant, Rui Faria, has just revealed the one player who could change everything for Manchester United in the Europa League match!

Manchester United are set for a crucial Europa League showdown against Real Sociedad at Old Trafford on Thursday, with a quarter-final spot at stake. Every tactical move by manager Rúben Amorim will be under scrutiny as the team aims to secure progression in the competition.

While much attention has been on United’s attacking firepower, former assistant coach Rui Faria—who spent 17 years working alongside José Mourinho—has pointed to an often-overlooked player as a potential game-changer: Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder’s experience and defensive acumen, Faria believes, could be the key to United’s success in this decisive encounter.

The first leg in Spain ended in a 1-1 draw, with Joshua Zirkzee finding the net for United before Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty to level the score. As the teams prepare for the return fixture, Faria has stressed Casemiro’s ability to break up play and provide much-needed stability in midfield, which could dictate the tempo of the game.

Since his arrival from Real Madrid in August 2022, Casemiro has played a crucial role in United’s midfield, offering leadership and tactical intelligence. His presence has been vital throughout the European campaign, and his impact was on full display in the second leg, where he delivered a commanding performance in United’s dominant 4-1 victory. The emphatic win secured a 5-2 aggregate triumph and set up a quarter-final clash against Lyon.

Following the match, Amorim praised Casemiro for his composure and influence in both defensive duties and transitional play, emphasizing how his experience helped United maintain control under pressure. The victory not only highlighted the team’s attacking strength but also reinforced the importance of seasoned midfielders in navigating high-stakes European encounters.