When Ruben Amorim took over at Manchester United, one of his boldest decisions was to bench a five-time Champions League winner. Young midfielder Toby Collyer, now on loan at Hull City, has lifted the lid on how Brazilian legend Casemiro handled being dropped in favor of a teenager.

"When Ruben first came in, he wasn't having him one bit," Collyer revealed. "I was playing over Caza." For any player, being overtaken by an academy graduate would sting. But for Casemiro—a man who has won it all at Real Madrid and Brazil—the response was anything but bitter.

Rather than sulking, the 33-year-old got to work. He fought his way back into the starting XI and became one of Amorim's most trusted players. By the time the Portuguese coach was sacked, Casemiro was virtually undroppable—a trend that has continued under interim boss Michael Carrick.

Collyer, who spent four years learning from the veteran, described Casemiro as a "big role model" and the ultimate professional. "First into training, ultra professional," he said. "He leads by example."

Despite his resurgence, Casemiro is expected to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season. Fans have called for him to stay, but the Brazilian has confirmed there is no turning back.

For Collyer, the experience was invaluable. While he admits he was "focused on my football" during that period, he never stopped learning from one of the game's greats. "People say he's a warrior off the ball because he reads the game so well, but on the ball he's exceptional too," Collyer added.

It's a masterclass in professionalism—and a reminder that even the biggest stars can handle setbacks with grace.