Casemiro maintains that Bruno Fernandes was Manchester United 's "best player" whenever he watched them before moving to England.
The Brazilian made the switch to the Premier League in the summer, taking on a new challenge after years at success with Real Madrid.
Casemiro has made an instant impact with United firmly on the rise under Erik ten Hag as they finally begin to click after years of underachievement.
Fernandes is among the many recruits added over the decade and has turned out to be among the most successful new faces to arrive in Manchester.
He made an immediate difference when he arrived from Sporting Lisbon and Casemiro is a huge admirer of his now teammate.
He said: "Before coming to Manchester United, I’d turn on the TV and watch their games… and he was the best player.
"He’s one of the guys that helps up front and midfield, he is part of that transition. He’s our best player there."
Fernandes and Casemiro have, for the majority of the season, formed part of United's three-man midfield.
Christian Eriksen, prior to his injury, was also a crucial part and in his absence the likes of Fred and Marcel Sabitzer have stepped in.
The Portuguese star was prolific for the first 18 months of his time in Manchester - he scored 12 times in half a season before notching on 28 occasions in his first full year.
Like many of his teammates, he struggled to find his best level last term as United finished in sixth.
Casemiro, who claimed five Champions Leagues whilst in Spain, has proved to be a galvanising figure since signing.
He can help United claim their first trophy for six years when they take on Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday with the Brazilian determined to make his mark.
He said: "Regardless if we win or not, because we know it’s hard to win titles, especially the Premier League, where all games are tough.
"But I want to win titles and important games here. It’s not easy. We know that. Especially because we’re talking about the most difficult league in the world. But that’s what I want to be known for."
Ten Hag has confessed that Casemiro has had a great impact than even he foresaw. "Casemiro is magnificent," he said recently.
"In front of the back line, always taking good positions, in and out of position. And he can deal with the ball, he can give the right pass. So, he can accelerate the game and if necessary, he can score."
