The veteran midfielder will leave at the end of the season, throwing up the question of who is going to succeed him as a starter
Casemiro
Casemiro is set to leave Manchester United(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
View Image
Veteran midfielder Casemiro will leave Manchester United at the end of the season after being told that the club will not be renewing his contract - and some fans in the Manchester Evening News comments sections say that his successor must be able to replicate his drive and professionalism.
The Brazilian's departure in four months' time is one way in which the club are seeking to remodel their squad, and getting the wages of a star player off the books will help them do that. Casemiro arrived from Real Madrid in 2022 in a deal rising to as much as £70m, scoring 21 times in his 146 games so far from the base of United's midfield.
After helping the squad to a League Cup and FA Cup win, there had been calls to sell the ageing midfielder, but this season has shown that he is still more than capable of being a key man, most recently at the derby win over Manchester City. Posting on his Instagram account, Casemiro said: "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. Forever Red Devil."
Some fans were quick to give Casemiro his flowers for his stint at the club. Reader Heehee123 says: "Scored 21 goals and a quite a few of those were very important. Can hold his head high, at least he was one player who always gave his all."
Commenter Antw writes: "People underestimate how good Casemiro actually is. He’s had a few off games, but when we played Lyon at Old Trafford & miraculously won, Casemiro had a part to play in all of the last 3 goals. He won the penalty, he set up Mainoo & also set up Maguire. Unfortunately his legs are giving up."
Chrisssssss says: "Yeah sad to see him go, but realistically seems like a sensible decision. Always more humble than I imagined."
Phillotommo writes: "Sad to See him go. But the legs have gone. Some great memories, and the passion he has for United is infectious. Pity his teammates haven't got the same work ethic as him. Best of Luck Cas, C'MON UNITED."
For others, thoughts are already turning to what comes next for United's midfield. 1968red says: "Well at least it will free up a few quid for a replacement, but it's been money well spent since we signed him. Wish him all the best and thanks for the memories Cas."
Rightwing7 wants to see a similar character come in through the door: "One of the best, if not the best DM in football history. Unfortunately for us, we got only 30% of the best Casemiro, but he give us 100% of what was left in his tank. Never complaining, 100% professional. Wish we can get a young 'Case', like the one when he was in his prime. All my respect for a fantastic football player, and I wish him well in future."
Some would even like to see him remain at United in a different capacity. On our Facebook page, Ng Yoon Fatt says: "This guy is a fantastic professional. He could be an inspiration to our kids in the academy. Personally, I would want to keep him, of course at the right price."
Peter Bowker agrees: "He should be put on the coaching staff in the academy. He is like Cantona, he commands respect. Been a great football player."
Using the comments section below, tell us who Manchester United should replace Casemiro with next season.