Manchester United fans made their feelings known about Casemiro ahead of Sunday’s Red Devils game against Aston Villa in the final eight games of his spell at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick spoke about Casemiro after Manchester United’s goal against Aston Villa (Image: Catherine Ivill – AMA, Getty Images)
Michael Carrick still believes Casemiro will leave Manchester United this summer, despite suggestions the club could try to persuade him to stay. Both sides have agreed that the 34-year-old will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of this season.
But his recent performances have been outstanding, as evidenced by his contribution to all three goals in United’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday. Casemiro scored the opening goal and then provided important passes that led to goals from Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesco, strengthening United’s bid to qualify for the Champions League in 2026/27.
The former Real Madrid midfielder has played his best football in his four-year spell at Old Trafford, having appeared in all nine games under Carrick. However, his wage is £350,000 a week and his departure this summer could help United save money.
read more: Gary Neville expresses concern, Brian Mbeumo ‘shakes his head’ at Man United teammateread more: Manchester United bosses made clear transfer request during important Aston Villa win
But during Sunday’s win, chants of “one more year, Casemiro, one more year” erupted at the Stretford End, raising doubts whether Carrick could turn things around before the end of the season. He said: “In some ways, I think it’s hard to say, but I think it’s when something is decided and in some ways the fact that it’s decided makes things a little bit easier and I think everyone really understands the situation.
“I think the influence he has 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, the connection with the supporters and the respect.”
United could save more than £18m a year in wages if Casemiro leaves, but finding his replacement will be a major challenge. He has scored seven goals in the Premier League this season and has rediscovered his form to become one of the division’s outstanding holding midfielders.
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The five-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid also brings considerable experience to the club, but Carrick dismissed the idea that replacing him would be an almost impossible task. He added: “I don’t think this is disrespectful at all to Case. He’s been great, he’s a big player for us, he’s an important figure in the dressing room and he’s a player that I talk to a lot and have a very good relationship with.”
“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.
Casemiro leaves Man United this summer (Image: OLI SCARFF, AFP, Getty Images)
“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.”
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