Set for a new adventure: Manchester United and Casemiro set to part ways at the end of the season

Casemiro is set to leave Old Trafford this summer. (Image credits – Heute, Licence Details)

Manchester United have not renewed the contract of Casemiro and have officially announced that this will be his last season at Old Trafford. The Brazilian midfielder will be a free agent after his contract expires in June.

The 33-year-old joined the club from Real Madrid for £70m and has made 146 appearances since then and scored the winner against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final.

Tensions had started to arise between the two parties after co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had said in an interview that some players are overpaid and not good enough for Manchester United. It was certainly a dig at the former Real Madrid legend.

"I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life. It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months,” said Casemiro in a statement. (sic)

He further added, “We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed.” (sic)

The club are set to give him a fitting farewell in the final home game at Old Trafford against Nottingham Forest.

Is Casemiro’s departure an advantage for Manchester United?

Casemiro is one of the highest-paid players in the Manchester United squad, earning almost £375,000 a week. The club had bought him for the hefty price of £70m when Declan Rice and Frenkie de Jong were available at a lesser price in the market.

Although the Brazilian international is one of the greatest holding midfielders of all time, his tenure at Old Trafford was disappointing as per his high standards. It is fair to say he didn't fit well after having played with midfielders like Toni Kroos and Luka Modric throughout the prime of his career.

After Casemiro's departure, Man Utd will be able to free up a lot of wages and look for midfielders who are younger and technically gifted. The Brazilian’s first season was good, but as time progressed since then, his performances started to drop.

Jamie Carragher even dropped the famous quote, "Leave football before football leaves you," aiming at the former Real Madrid star after a shocking 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in 2024.

Although he regained form in the later half of the previous season, it made little sense to renew his contract with such high wages for an additional year. Instead, the club can accommodate more players within those freed-up wages and build a squad that can compete in the Premier League.