Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is set to depart the Red Devils in the summer, but his promise could be about to materialise three years later. The Real Madrid icon was understood to have messaged his agent in 2023 vowing to resolve their difficulties following a chastening loss at Brentford under Erik ten Hag.
As he prepares to exit Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the season, United are on the brink of securing their place in the Champions League next year. After experiencing a challenging period at the Theatre of Dreams, Casemiro’s United resurgence has arrived at the ideal moment as he has delivered some crucial performances to maintain their European ambitions.
In 2023, The Telegraph claimed that United’s disappointing opening to the campaign, which included defeats to Brighton and Brentford, inspired the five-time Champions League winner to swap Madrid for Manchester.
Following a dismal 4-0 thrashing at the hands of the Bees, the then-30-year-old was reported to have texted his agent: “Tell them I’ll fix this.”
Casemiro’s time during his four-year deal in the North West has been anything but plain sailing, with him facing fierce criticism from the likes of Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville.
The former Liverpool defender, in particular, offered a scathing assessment of the Brazilian’s stint at Old Trafford, calling on Casemiro to quit the Premier League. Yet this season’s remarkable exploits have forced Carragher to eat his own words and concede that the midfielder has proved him wrong.
Despite matching a career-best goals tally for the campaign across all competitions – seven, every one of which came in the Premier League this season – he will say his goodbyes to United, having ultimately accomplished what he set out to achieve in turning the club’s fortunes around.
Confirming his exit, he said: “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.”
During a recent question-and-answer session with the club, he added, “The affection they have for the club is what I will miss most. Of course, the club, but the fans are so connected to the club regardless of the result.
“Next game, they will be there supporting the players and the club, that is what I will miss most.”