Casemiro to leave Manchester United at season end

Casemiro will leave Manchester United at the end of the season when his contract expires, the club confirmed. The Brazilian midfielder announced his departure in January 2026, bringing an end to a four-year spell at Old Trafford. According to multiple reports, a clause in his contract that would have extended it by one year if he started 35 Premier League games was waived by mutual agreement in January.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among fans and teammates. During a recent match against Aston Villa, supporters chanted 'one more year' for Casemiro, a gesture that moved his family deeply. According to Casemiro, his wife cried when fans chanted for him to stay. The emotional response was compounded by past criticism from pundits; according to multiple reports, Casemiro's wife responded to Roy Keane's criticism by sharing a photo of his trophy cabinet on social media.

Casemiro joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2022 for a fee up to £70 million, according to multiple reports. During his time at the club, he has made over 150 appearances and won two major trophies. This season, he has scored six goals in the Premier League, equalling his best league tally. According to research, he has won five duels per game with four recoveries and two tackles, and has provided two assists in 27 league appearances. His contributions have been praised by teammates. Noussair Mazraoui, speaking at a press conference, said: 'Casemiro brings experience, like crazy, and knows how to win.' Mazraoui also described Casemiro's departure as a sad day and said he will be missed on and off the pitch. According to Metro - Main, Leny Yoro described how everyone in the dressing room wanted Casemiro to stay.

Casemiro's determination to succeed at Manchester United was evident early in his tenure. According to The Telegraph, Casemiro texted his agent in 2023 saying 'Tell them I’ll fix this' after a 4-0 defeat to Brentford. That resolve has been a hallmark of his time at the club, even as he faced criticism over his age and salary. In an official statement, Casemiro said: 'I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life.' He added: 'It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months.' Manchester United manager Michael Carrick confirmed at a press conference that Casemiro's departure is decided and will not be reversed.

Manchester United are now planning for life without Casemiro. According to multiple reports, the club is planning to sign two new midfielders in the summer. A shortlist of targets includes Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Ederson, according to multiple reports. According to research, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson could be a replacement for Casemiro, valued at £75 million. Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte is expected to leave Manchester United in the summer, according to Gary Neville. According to Metro - Main, Gus Poyet described that Manuel Ugarte should leave Manchester United and should have joined Chelsea earlier. According to Metro - Main, Gary Neville described that Manchester United need two central midfield players. The club's midfield rebuild will be crucial as they look to improve on a disappointing season. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will actually sign two new midfielders and which specific targets they will secure. The exact financial impact of Casemiro's departure, including salary saved and any potential transfer fee, has not been disclosed.