Manchester United are in a good place. How often have we been able to say that over the last few years? With eight games to play in the Premier League, the Red Devils can be happy with where they find themselves.
Six points separate United in third and Chelsea in sixth, and while fifth place may be enough to secure a Champions League spot, it’s looking likely the Old Trafford outfit will be making a continental return next season. But are United ready to compete on Europe’s biggest stage once again?
It’s safe to say that INEOS have another big summer on the horizon. It will start with deciding on a permanent manager to lead them into the new season, with Michael Carrick only in the role on an interim basis. And then there’s likely to be another summer of squad turnover, as INEOS look to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
But what if they’ve sanctioned one decision that could harm their chances for the 2026/27 season already?
Not for the first time this season, Casemiro showed he’s still got what it takes to make an impact in the Premier League with his performance against Aston Villa. The veteran Brazilian has already announced his intention to leave at the end of his contract, with United eyeing up a refresh in the midfield department.
Could it prove a decision they live to regret, though? Sure, United are probably right to be looking for a long-term alternative to Casemiro, given the ex-Real Madrid ace is well into his thirties. But there’s a chance INEOS could be sleepwalking into a problem by trying to do too much at once.
By simply being in the squad, he’d already be having a positive impact on whoever United bring through the door. He doesn’t have to start, just come in when necessary and provide a touch of maturity to what will likely be a young and inexperienced squad.
There is the question of salary, of course. Casemiro is among the club’s highest earners, and given his deal is coming to a natural end, United are unlikely to have considered offering the same terms. But if Casemiro had fancied sticking around, albeit on reduced terms, he’s a tool that United could’ve really done with in their armoury.