Manchester United confirmed on Thursday that midfielder Casemiro will leave the club at the end of the season, after the club decided not to trigger the one-year extension in his contract.
The Brazil international, who joined from Real Madrid in 2022 for £70 million, has made 146 appearances for United.
He scored the opening goal in the 2023 Carabao Cup final as United finished third in the Premier League in his first season.
However, the 33-year-old’s time at Old Trafford became increasingly controversial after new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe publicly criticised the club’s wage structure, highlighting Casemiro’s £375,000-a-week salary as an example of excessive spending.
Despite that, Casemiro has insisted he remains fully focused on the remaining season.
“I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life,” Casemiro said in a club statement.
“It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months.”
Decision Made Well Before Announcement
Sources familiar with the matter say the decision not to extend Casemiro’s contract was made months ago, long before Thursday’s announcement.
The decision reflects Ratcliffe’s broader strategy to reduce the club’s wage bill and reshape the squad. It also gives United the flexibility to pursue midfield targets in the summer transfer window.
A Career at United Defined by Early Success and Later Criticism
Casemiro was initially signed after United failed to land Erik ten Hag’s preferred midfield targets, Frenkie de Jong and Declan Rice.
His arrival was considered essential after United began the season with heavy defeats and a lack of midfield stability.
His first season proved successful as United finished third and reached the FA Cup final.
But the second season saw a decline in form, leading to widespread criticism, including a famous remark from Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher after a 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace.
Despite his struggles, Casemiro remained at the club due to the high cost of his wages and contract terms.
He later rebuilt his reputation by returning to consistent form, starting every game in the knockout phase of last season’s Europa League campaign and 19 of 20 Premier League matches this term.
End of an Era Opens Door for Midfield Reinforcement
With Casemiro’s departure confirmed, United now have a clearer path to strengthen their midfield. Transfer targets like Elliott Anderson, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton are reportedly high on the club’s list.
The move also gives United valuable financial flexibility, as Ratcliffe continues his push to cut costs and overhaul the squad.
Casemiro will now be free to negotiate with other clubs and is expected to seek a new team after the 2026 World Cup, where he is expected to feature for Brazil.
