Michael Carrick asked if Manchester United would make a U-turn on Casemiro after Villa goal | Soccer | Sports

Manager Michael Carrick expects Brazilian Casemiro to leave Manchester United this summer, although he remains undecided about the possibility of convincing him to extend his stay. Both club and player have mutually agreed that the 34-year-old will leave when his contract expires at the end of this season, but his recent performances have been impressive, with the midfielder contributing to all three goals in United’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday.

Casemiro opened the scoring with a header before making important passes in the build-up, with shots from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesco further cementing United’s place in the Champions League places. The former Real Madrid midfielder started all nine games under Carrick and has played some of his best football during his four-year spell at Old Trafford, but given his £350,000-a-week wage, his summer departure would significantly reduce the club’s financial burden.

But during Sunday’s win, repeated chants of “One more year, one more Casemiro” were heard at the Stretford End, raising Carrick’s doubts the club might reconsider their position before the end of the season approaches. “In some ways, I think it’s hard to say, but I think it’s when something is decided. In some ways, the fact that it’s been decided makes things a little bit easier and everyone really understands the situation,” he said.

“I think the influence he’s had since I came here and worked with him and experienced his influence within the team and the big moments and goals. It was a great moment at the end, connecting with the supporters and being respectful. It was a great moment and I think you’ll enjoy that moment too.”

A move for Casemiro could save United up to £18m a year in wages, but finding a suitable replacement will be a significant challenge. He has scored seven goals in the Premier League this season, rediscovering his best form and becoming one of the best holding midfielders in the division.

The five-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid brings valuable experience to the team, but Carrick dismissed the idea that finding a successor would be nearly impossible.

“I don’t think this is a disrespect at all to Case. He’s been great, a big player for us, a big player in the dressing room and someone I’ve talked to a lot and connected with,” he said.

“But I think as a club, as a team, players leave, some players may be bigger, some players may be more important than others at any given time.

“I don’t think it’s in any way important to replace them several times. I think we can go in a different direction and understand what we need for the balance of the team. Whether it’s on the pitch, leadership off the pitch, position-wise, there are all sorts of different things in there.”

“Kase has done some really, really great things. It’s been a real pleasure working with him since I’ve been here.”