Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has revealed that his name has been spelled incorrectly since his early days at Sao Paulo and he never changed it out of superstition. The Brazilian explained how a one-time printing error led to a career-long identity that stuck with him across Real Madrid, Brazil and Manchester United.
How Casemiro’s name error became a lifelong superstition
Casemiro, whose real name is Carlos Henrique Jose Francisco Venancio Casimiro revealed that the misspelling of his name began during one of his early matches for Sao Paulo. The club accidentally printed “Casemiro” on his shirt instead of “Casimiro.” After delivering a standout performance, the midfielder decided not to correct it.
AdvertisementAFPCasemiro opens up about superstition and success
Speaking to , he said: "For everyone, I will always be Casemiro… It's all Sao Paulo's fault. It all started when I played one of my first matches for Sao Paulo, the club where I went through the ranks, from the youth team to the first team [from 2002 to 2013]. They accidentally wrote my name with an 'e' on the shirt. I played very well.
"I’m a very superstitious person. I told the club: ‘There’s no need to change it — things are going well.’ It was a one-match mistake, and now I’ll carry it with me forever."
The spelling stuck ever since, becoming part of his footballing identity through Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Brazil.
From Real Madrid dominance to a Manchester United leader
After a glittering spell at Los Blancos, Casemiro joined United in 2022, quickly becoming a fan favourite for his leadership and experience. While his second season drew criticism for a dip in form, he’s since regained rhythm as part of Ruben Amorim’s system, anchoring United’s midfield in the Premier League this term. His revival comes amid rumours linking him with a Saudi Pro League move, but Amorim reportedly sees him as vital to Red Devil’s rebuild. The veteran’s recent consistency has once again made him one of United’s most dependable figures.
Getty ImagesCaptaincy, comeback, and what’s next for Casemiro
The 33-year-old continues to play a key role for both club and country. Backed by Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, he could take over the Selecao captaincy if Neymar is sidelined for the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder has been named in Brazil’s squad for their upcoming friendlies against South Korea and Japan on October 10 and 14. After the international break, Casemiro will return to England as United prepare for a fierce Premier League clash against Liverpool.