Casemiro: Man United star makes crucial decision on his future | OneFootball

Casemiro’s future at Manchester United was subject to speculation over the summer – and this looks set to repeat next year.

The Brazilian midfielder arrived in 2022 from Real Madrid and enjoyed an impressive debut campaign at Old Trafford under former manager Erik ten Hag.

Casemiro finished the campaign with seven goals and six assists from 51 games for the Premier League giants, helping them win the EFL Cup.

However, the 33 year old slipped down the pecking order the following campaign, and wasn’t part of the matchday squad for the FA Cup final, which United won.

Casemiro initially played second fiddle to Manuel Ugarte last season. However, he gained prominence in the final months of the season under Ruben Amorim, especially in the Europa League.

Casemiro is wanted in the Middle East

Casemiro was expected to leave United this summer, especially since his contract expires next year and he is one of the biggest earners at Old Trafford. The player was wanted by clubs from the Middle East as well.

According to Trivela (as relayed by Sports Mole) the Brazilian turned down a lucrative offer to move to Saudi Arabia because he wanted to stay at the Theatre of Dreams.

The veteran midfielder was initially open to the idea of a new adventure this year, but opted against a move in the end. His recent upturn in fortunes may have played a part in his decision.

Casemiro has started three of United’s five games this season, all of which were in the Premier League, striking up a partnership with Bruno Fernandes at the heart of Amorim’s midfield. He also came off the bench in the recent 3-0 defeat against Manchester City, where the Red Devils missed his presence in the middle of the park.

While he was a peripheral figure last season, the Brazilian now feels important under Amorim and is ready to stay at Old Trafford for the entire 2025/26 campaign. The player also has one eye on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and believes that continuing with the Red Devils will improve his chances of making it to Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the tournament.

An option for an additional year

Casemiro’s deal with United has the option for an additional year, which can be triggered by mutual consent.

As things stand, though, the report reveals Brazilian midfielder does not intend to take up that option. Instead, Casemiro is ready to pursue a fresh start and would prefer to stay in Europe, potentially even at a different Premier League club.

“Casemiro’s future beyond this season remains uncertain. Each transfer window, the midfielder is linked with speculation and receives offers and inquiries from Saudi clubs. While he has not ruled out a move to the Middle East, the 32-year-old is also aware he could still perform at a high level in another European league or even at a different English club.”

United, meanwhile, are already laying down succession plans for the midfield and are expected to invest heavily in the position in 2026. The Red Devils wanted Carlos Baleba this summer, and the Cameroonian could become Casemiro’s replacement next year.

Featured image Jan Kruger via Getty Images

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