Manchester United are in a good position. How often have we been able to say that over the past few years? With eight games remaining in the Premier League, the Red Devils can be satisfied with their situation.
Six points separate third-placed United and sixth-placed Chelsea, and fifth place may be enough to secure Champions League qualification, but it looks more likely that the Old Trafford outfit will return to the continent next season. But are United ready to compete on Europe’s biggest stage again?
It is no exaggeration to say that another big summer is approaching for INEOS. The first step will be to decide on a permanent manager to lead the new season, and Michael Carrick will only be appointed on an interim basis. And with INEOS looking to build a team that can compete on multiple fronts, it is likely that there will be another turnover in the squad in the summer.
But what if they had already approved one decision that could damage their chances for the 2026/27 season?
Casemiro’s performance against Aston Villa was not the first time this season that he showed he still has what it takes to make an impact in the Premier League. The veteran Brazilian has already announced his intention to leave at the end of his contract, with United looking to revamp their midfield department.
But will that mean they’ve made a decision they’ll regret for the rest of their lives? Indeed, United are probably right to be looking for a long-term replacement for Casemiro, given that the former Real Madrid ace is already in his 30s. However, trying to do too many things at once can cause INEOS to sleepwalk and cause problems.
Just by being in the team, he will already have a positive influence on the players United bring in. He doesn’t need to start, coming in as needed and just bringing a bit of maturity to a young and inexperienced team.
Of course, there is also the issue of pay. Casemiro is one of the club’s highest-paid players and given that his contract is nearing its natural end, it is unlikely that United would have considered offering the same terms. But if Casemiro had been willing to stay at a lower price, he is a tool that United could really have used in their arsenal.
