For me it's a pleasure to be trained by Zidane. I am just very

Hear, O seeker of wisdom, the words of Casemiro, warrior of the midfield, who declared: “For me it’s a pleasure to be trained by Zidane. I am just very thankful for all he has been asking me to do and for helping me to evolve.” These words are not the boast of a champion, but the humble acknowledgment of a disciple toward his master. In them resounds the timeless truth: that greatness is never achieved in isolation, but through the guidance of mentors who shape the raw stone into a polished jewel.

The origin of this utterance lies in Casemiro’s years at Real Madrid, where he came under the stewardship of Zinedine Zidane, a legend of the game, not only for his skill with the ball but for his wisdom as a leader. To be trained by such a man was for Casemiro not simply instruction in tactics, but a schooling in mentality, discipline, and the art of carrying responsibility upon one’s shoulders. His gratitude reveals that he does not see himself as self-made, but as one who has evolved because of the faith and direction of another.

This truth has been echoed throughout history. Recall the tale of Alexander the Great and Aristotle. Though Alexander conquered nations, he once declared that he owed his life to his father, but to Aristotle he owed the knowledge of how to live. The bond of mentor and student is one of the most sacred of human ties. Just as Alexander grew into a leader under his teacher, so Casemiro honors Zidane for helping him rise from talent into mastery, from soldier into general on the field.

Notice too the humility in Casemiro’s words. He speaks not of resisting commands, but of being thankful for all he has been asked to do. This reveals a spirit willing to listen, to obey, to be shaped. Many men resist correction, thinking it diminishes them, but the wise know that correction is the hammer that forges greatness. To be willing to learn, and to rejoice in being guided, is to walk the path of true strength.

The lesson for us is this: seek mentors who can elevate you, and when you find them, honor their wisdom with humility and gratitude. Greatness does not arise from stubborn pride, but from the willingness to be taught. Whether in art, in labor, in family, or in faith, those who open themselves to guidance are the ones who grow beyond the limits of their own vision. Casemiro’s thankfulness to Zidane is a reminder that no achievement is solitary—it is always the fruit of shared labor.

Therefore, O listener, in your own journey, do not despise instruction. Welcome those who correct you, who push you beyond your comfort, who demand more than you thought you could give. Be thankful for them, for they are the ones who carve away your weaknesses and reveal the strength within. And when your time comes to guide others, remember Zidane’s example—lead not only with authority but with wisdom, shaping not just the hands of your students but their hearts.

So let the words of Casemiro endure: “It’s a pleasure… I am very thankful… for helping me to evolve.” In them lies the eternal cycle of greatness: the student who honors his teacher grows into the master who shapes new disciples. Carry this truth, and you will find that your own evolution is not only a path of personal triumph but a gift that will echo through generations yet to come.