After some pundits suggested retirement two years ago, Casemiro has silenced doubters with his Brazil recall. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, who once called him "the steady metronome at the heart of midfield," brought the 34-year-old back after 18 months away. Despite Premier League concerns about his legs, Casemiro proved his worth in Brazil's recent friendly against France.

The midfielder delivered against France, making a vital tackle early and creating chances with two superb long-range passes to Raphinha. Casemiro's performance raises questions about Brazil's tactical setup with just two central midfielders. Ancelotti's system features a front four but lacks numbers in the middle, risking being overwhelmed as seen in France's opening goal.

With Bruno Guimarães injured, Casemiro shoulders immense responsibility alone in Brazil's two-man midfield. The World Cup's extreme heat conditions add another layer of challenge for the 34-year-old. Ancelotti may need to consider alternatives like Danilo or Paquetá, or even shift to a three-man midfield formation to provide adequate coverage.