Fundamental. That is how everyone at Real Madrid will remember Casemiro’s contribution to the club’s record 11th European crown.
Saturday night’s penalty shootout victory over city rival Atletico capped what has been a memorable season for the 24-year-old who has just been crowned a king. Now his attentions will turn to the USA, the Copa America, and becoming as important to Dunga as he is to Zinedine Zidane.
He broke into the team at the world’s biggest club. The biggest national team is next on the list.
"He’s never protested when he hasn't played, and he's been given his opportunity to play for Madrid," Real and Brazil colleague Marcelo said ahead of the final.