Casemiro is gearing up for a big 2026 as he looks to help Manchester United qualify for the Champions League, represent Brazil at the World Cup and begin his search for a new club.
Although Casemiro is 33 and past his best, the Brazil international remains a key figure in Manchester United’s midfield. It was evident again in the recent wins over Man City and Arsenal as his experience shone through in big games alongside Kobbie Mainoo in the middle of the pitch.
Ruben Amorim spoke about the importance of Casemiro during his time as United head coach, and now Michael Carrick has made it clear that he will rely upon the midfield veteran for the remainder of the season.
United’s 3-2 win over Arsenal showed why, as Carrick recorded a second win over Mikel Arteta. Casemiro will likely keep his place in the team when United take on Fulham next weekend.
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Casemiro exit
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It’s crucial to United’s season that Casemiro remains fit and consistent, as he’s been such an influential member of the team since signing from Real Madrid in 2022.
Casemiro announced his plans to leave United at the end of the season when his contract expires, after a four-year stint at Old Trafford.
United fans will argue that it is a shame he didn’t transfer from Madrid earlier in his career. Some regret letting Casemiro go at the end of the season.
Casemiro applauds away Man Utd fans
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Casemiro opens up on World Cup dream and Man Utd form
Casemiro will play in his third World Cup this summer.
The United midfielder is a trusted lieutenant under Carlo Ancelotti from his time in Madrid, which explains why he has been given the responsibility of national team captain ahead of the tournament.
That means Casemiro will be one of the first names listed in Ancelotti’s squad, granted he avoids injuries between now and the end of the season.
Casemiro will be 34 when the World Cup kicks-off. He has already represented the national team in two World Cups: Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.
Speaking exclusively to ESPN, Casemiro explained how his form at United will impact his dream of winning the World Cup for Brazil: “It’s one of the things that goes through my head the most, especially the way we lost, even more so in the other two [2018 and 2022], when we were doing well, with good dynamics.
“Against Croatia, for example, they took a shot on goal, scored, and ended up being eliminated on penalties. So, it’s the title that’s missing from my career.
“Of course, when it comes to the World Cup, to get to the World Cup, you have to do well at your club to do well at the World Cup. So, consequently, one thing leads to another.
“So I have to do well here at United. But it’s something I dream about every day, and I dream about it while awake, I dream about it while sleeping. I think it’s something I think about a lot and it’s one of the big goals for this season.”
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Casemiro seasons
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Carlo Ancelotti sent staff to watch Casemiro in Manchester derby
In the same interview, Casemiro opened up on his strong relationship with Ancelotti.
Casemiro has won a lot under Ancelotti, such as two Champions League titles, one UEFA Super Cup, one La Liga title, one Spanish Super Cup, and one Copa del Rey.
“We always communicate, mainly because of his human side. He’s a guy who’s always very close to the players, wishing them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”, he said.
Casemiro went on to confirm that Ancelotti sent staff to watch him in United’s 2-0 win over Man City.
“His coaching staff was at the game against City. They told me they wanted to come and watch the game. So, we’re always in communication; it’s important, especially with that strong base that we know the national team has.
“And of course, it’s nothing new for Ancelotti to do this, because of his human side, which is very important.”
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