Casemiro to leave Manchester United at end of season as club plans midfield reset

Manchester United have confirmed that midfielder Casemiro will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of the current season, Sport360NG reports.

The 33-year-old joined United from Real Madrid in 2022 for £70 million and has gone on to make 146 appearances. He played a pivotal role in his debut campaign, scoring the opening goal in the 2023 Carabao Cup final victory over Newcastle and helping United finish third in the Premier League.

However, Casemiro’s future came under scrutiny last year after comments from new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who publicly criticised elements of the squad as being “not good enough” and “overpaid”, with the Brazilian frequently cited as an example due to his £375,000-a-week wages.

In a statement released following Thursday’s announcement, Casemiro struck a conciliatory and committed tone.

“I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life,” he said. “It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months. We still have a lot to fight for together.”

Decision Made Long in Advance

While speculation had persisted over whether United would activate a one-year extension in Casemiro’s deal, sources indicate there was never any real doubt internally. Ratcliffe, intent on reducing costs and restructuring the club’s wage bill, was unwilling to extend one of the most lucrative contracts at Old Trafford. The decision not to trigger the option was made well in advance of the public confirmation.

Casemiro’s arrival in 2022 came after United failed to land alternative midfield targets, including Frenkie de Jong and Declan Rice. Following heavy early-season defeats by Brighton and Brentford, Erik ten Hag pushed for an experienced figure to stabilise the side, and United met Real Madrid’s demands to secure the Brazilian on a four-year contract.

That call was initially vindicated. Casemiro’s first season was widely regarded as a success, but his form dipped sharply during the following campaign. The cost of the deal and his declining performances became a growing concern, culminating in public criticism after a 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace in May 2024.

Despite appearing close to the exit last summer, Casemiro remained at the club after potential moves failed to materialise, largely due to his salary. Under former head coach Ruben Amorim, he fell down the pecking order but gradually rebuilt his standing through improved performances and professionalism.

Late Resurgence and Financial Impact

The midfielder went on to start every knockout match in United’s Europa League-winning campaign last season and has featured heavily in the Premier League this term. That resurgence reignited debate over his future, but sources say Casemiro requested clarity to avoid ongoing speculation.

United now gain significant financial flexibility with their highest earner set to leave. The club is expected to accelerate plans to refresh the midfield, with Elliott Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton among those under consideration.

Casemiro, meanwhile, will be free to negotiate his next move ahead of the summer, following what is expected to be his involvement with Brazil at the World Cup.