Casemiro will leave Manchester United at the end of the season after his contract expires, the Premier League club confirmed on Thursday. The Brazil captain joined United from Real Madrid in 2022 and has since made 146 appearances, scoring 21 goals during his time at Old Trafford.
Casemiro's Time at Manchester United
Casemiro’s time at Manchester United was a story of immediate impact, big moments, and a challenging final chapter. Signed from Real Madrid in August 2022 for a deal worth up to £70 million, Casemiro arrived at Old Trafford with a reputation as one of the world’s best defensive midfielders, and a bold promise to help revive United after a humiliating early-season defeat. His confidence quickly translated onto the pitch.
After making his debut against Southampton, Casemiro soon began influencing games with his positional intelligence, passing range, and leadership. His first Premier League goal came in dramatic fashion: a last-minute header against Chelsea that rescued a vital point. Manager Erik ten Hag openly praised his tactical discipline and ability to control matches from midfield, highlighting how crucial he was in stabilising the team.
The 2022–23 season proved to be the peak of Casemiro’s United spell. Despite disciplinary issues, including two red cards that led to lengthy suspensions, he played a central role in ending the club’s trophy drought. He scored in the EFL Cup final win over Newcastle United, earning the Alan Hardaker Trophy and helping United lift their first silverware since 2017. However, his aggressive style also brought controversy, as he became the only Premier League player that season to receive two red cards.
In Europe, Casemiro continued to deliver standout moments, most notably scoring twice against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in 2023 on his 100th European appearance. Yet, as time went on, his form declined. The 2024–25 season included high-profile errors, especially in a heavy defeat to Liverpool, and increasing criticism.
Casemiro’s spell at Manchester United has been mixed, marked by a noticeable dip in form during his second season. However, after earning a regular place under Ruben Amorim, the 33-year-old re-established himself as a near ever-present in the team with a run of improved performances.
Despite this resurgence, United have decided not to retain the midfielder. His recent form was not enough to outweigh factors such as his age and status as one of the club’s highest earners, leading to the confirmation of his departure at the end of the season
Casemiro's Words After Announcing Manchester United Exit
The following were Casemiro's words to the club's official website after announcing his Manchester United Departure:
"I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life.
"From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club.
"It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months.
"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."
Casemiro will still be a Manchester United player for a few more months, and football fans should be enjoying the final months of a legendary player at Old Trafford.
