Manchester United have announced Casemiro's exit this summer but there are growing calls to change tack and keep hold of the Brazilian as he continues to perform well
Casemiro will depart Man United at the end of the season
Casemiro will depart Man United at the end of the season(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
View 2 Images
Chris Sutton claims there shouldn't be debate over keeping Casemiro and talk of extending the Manchester United star's contract could lead to awkward dynamics in the dressing room.
The Brazilian's departure was announced several weeks ago with the club choosing to let him leave upon the expiry of his deal on June 30. The Red Devils do have the option to trigger a 12-month extension, but there is no plan to do so.
Casemiro has endured mixed fortunes at Old Trafford. Upon arriving in 2022 from Real Madrid he was a huge hit, but dropped off massively in his second season. He's rediscovered form as the Manchester outfit charge towards the Champions League spots, leading to talk of him staying.
Casemiro scored against Aston Villa on Sunday - his seventh goal of the season - and supporters sang "One more year, Casemiro". After the 3-1 victory captain Bruno Fernandes, striker Matheus Cunha and defender Leny Yoro both said after they hoped Casemiro would remain at the club.
Sutton, though, is adamant that the club need to move on, and his impressive performances simply mirror the team's improved fortunes. His astronomical wages also make him an expensive asset whilst age is not on his side.
Sutton said on BBC Radio 5 Live's Monday Night Club: "He's done OK, but he's had his day. If Manchester United really want to move forward as a club Casemiro isn't the future. He's been a great player and you'd give your right arm to have a career like him. But he just doesn't have the legs he's once had.
"If Manchester United want to move to that next level he's not for next season. If he wants £350,000 to be good in the dressing room I don't think they will pay that. I also wonder with Casemiro with everything he has done in his career, isn't he the type of player who will want to play? It's not always simple as keep him because he's good in the dressing room. It could be that he's awkward because he's desperate to play. It's not as clear cut."
Chris Sutton is adamant Man Utd have to move on from the Brazilian
Chris Sutton is adamant Man Utd have to move on from the Brazilian(Image: SNS Group)
View 2 Images
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has hinted that Casemiro's £18.2million annual salary was overindulgent, with the Ineos supremo determined to ensure the club manage their finances better. That was a motivating factor in letting the Brazilian move on this summer.
Michael Carrick may not be in charge next season, but believes the decision allows for clarity with no sign of a change of heart. "When something is decided it makes it a little bit easier and everyone understands the situation," he said. "The impact he's had has been terrific, through his influence within the team and with big moments and goals."
United are set to be in the market for midfield recruits this summer with the likes of Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton linked with big moves.