Evergreen midfielder Casemiro has scored nine goals this season for Manchester United, a remarkable tally second only to Benjamin Sesko. The 34-year-old Brazilian has also provided two assists, logging 2,417 minutes across 31 starts from 32 appearances, finishing 13 games including seven of the last nine.
A Stunning Reversal of Fortune
Two years ago, Jamie Carragher advised Casemiro to "leave the football before the football leaves you" after a 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace. Now, as Casemiro prepares to depart Old Trafford at the end of the campaign, fans are pleading with him to stay, and he has reclaimed a starting role with Brazil ahead of the World Cup.
Carragher's words came during a downturn in Casemiro's performances, when United—then under Erik ten Hag—were open to selling the player, who was earning close to £365,000-a-week on a four-year contract. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had even cited Casemiro as an example of poor recruitment. By January 2025, Casemiro was an unused substitute for five consecutive league matches, with Toby Collyer preferred by new manager Ruben Amorim.
Reprieve and Revival
Amorim prioritized the Europa League, handing Casemiro league starts at Tottenham and Everton. He impressed and started both legs of the last-16 win over Real Sociedad, the quarter-final victory against Lyon, the semi-final defeat of Athletic Bilbao, and the final loss to Tottenham. Amorim admitted he misjudged the five-time Champions League winner, and Carragher later performed a U-turn, stating, "It is now fair to say the football has not left him."
Factors Behind the Resurgence
Improved fitness and a more sympathetic manager in Michael Carrick—who played Casemiro's role into his late 30s—have been key. Carrick noted, "With a lot of experience you are trusting them to know themselves... It takes a lot of sacrifice and a lot of work to play for a long time." Additionally, United are now more on the front foot, reducing the need for hard running from ageing legs.
Prudent Exit
After United's 2-1 win against Brentford, Carrick confirmed Casemiro will not change his mind about leaving. At 35, departing now ensures he leaves football before it leaves him, with a likely move to Major League Soccer or Saudi Arabia. His decision contrasts with Mohamed Salah's recent drop-off for Liverpool, serving as a cautionary tale.
