Casemiro's four-year stay at Manchester United will come to an end in the summer as the club's overhaul in midfield takes its next step
Manchester United have announced Casemiro will leave the club at the end of the season
Manchester United have announced Casemiro will leave the club at the end of the season(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Manchester United have confirmed that Casemiro will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. The midfielder joined the club in 2022 from Real Madrid and has played 146 times.
Casemiro, 33, has been a regular in midfield at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. He also started Michael Carrick's first game in charge against Manchester City.
A club statement read: "Casemiro will leave Manchester United this summer, upon the expiry of his contract. The legendary midfielder has enjoyed four seasons at the club, playing 146 games and scoring 21 goals to date.
Casemiro is understood to have asked United to make the announcement now, with speculation over his future having hit overdrive in recent weeks. He was keen to avoid incorrect speculation that the club would offer a new contract or trigger an option.
"A serial winner, Casemiro was unveiled at Old Trafford in August 2022, and quickly became a fan favourite due to his combative nature and ability to score goals at crucial times. The Brazil captain played a major role in helping United to win the 2023 Carabao Cup, scoring a header in a colossal performance against Newcastle United.
"The 33-year-old also won the Emirates FA Cup in 2024. Supporters will have the opportunity to recognise Casemiro’s contributions at the final home game of the season, against Nottingham Forest."
It's understood that Casemiro requested to make the decision public in order to "bring external clarity" to the situation. The Manchester Evening News report that United made the decision not to renew his contract a while go and informed Casemiro of the decision.
The Brazil international was keen to avoid incorrect speculation that a new contract would be offered or the option for an extension would be triggered. The former Real Madrid star holds a clause in his contract that extends his deal by a year if he starts 35 games this season.
"I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life," Casemiro said. “From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club.
“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; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed.”
He added on his Instagram account: "Knowing when stages come to an end. Knowing when to say goodbye when you feel that you will be remembered and respected forever.
"Four months to give my all for this badge and for our goal. Eternal respect and affection for Manchester United and its wonderful fans."
United's statement confirming that Casemiro will leave the club in the summer comes in the middle of their pursuit for a new midfielder. United have been linked with a host of midfielders this month and a cut-price arrival hasn't been ruled out before the February 2nd deadline.
Casemiro
Casemiro has won the League Cup and FA Cup with Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)
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Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson are all long-term targets at United, but aren't expected to be pursued until the summer. Ruben Neves, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Wilfred Ndidi have all emerged as potential short-term fixes, with the trio expected to be available at a cut-price deal.
Casemiro and United have 16 games left of the season with the clear objective of qualifying for the Champions League. Carrick's men are currently fifth in the Premier League table, a position that could seal their spot in the prestigious competition.
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