Casemiro Planning Exit in 2026
Casemiro appears to have decided when he will bring his Manchester United stay to an end, with reports suggesting that he intends to leave in the summer of 2026.
The Brazilian midfielder has nine months left on his current deal, along with an option for a further year, but Trivela has reported that he has now made what was described as a final decision after months of reflection. He will complete his contract and then call time on his Old Trafford spell, which began in August 2022 when he was signed from Real Madrid for £70 million under Erik ten Hag.
Now 33, Casemiro is understood to be keen on one last career challenge before retirement. His desire to depart will not change even if United wish to extend his stay. Since Ruben Amorim’s appointment last November, his role has been inconsistent. For long stretches, he found himself out of favour and was an unused substitute 17 times, but towards the end of last season he regained minutes and started six of the final seven league fixtures.
Despite this, the Brazilian has found it difficult to adapt to Amorim’s new tactical structure, much like several of his teammates. Performances have remained uneven and doubts continue over whether the system can thrive long term. From January, Casemiro will be free to negotiate a pre-contract with clubs abroad. While speculation has pointed towards a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, which could potentially reunite him with Cristiano Ronaldo, no destination has yet been confirmed.
Amorim Weighs Options in Midfield
Attention is also turning to how United’s head coach may look to reshape his midfield if Casemiro departs as planned. Reports indicate Ruben Amorim admires one of his Portuguese compatriots currently playing outside of Europe and would welcome him into the fold at Old Trafford.
Ruben Neves, formerly of Wolverhampton Wanderers and now with Saudi side Al-Hilal, has emerged as a possible target. Amorim is thought to be a strong admirer of Neves’ leadership and technical qualities, with CaughtOffside noting that the coach sees him as an ideal fit for his squad. Al-Hilal would reportedly demand around £17.3 million to sanction a January sale, a figure that could tempt United given the player’s proven pedigree.
Neves left Wolves in 2023 after 177 Premier League appearances to pursue a new opportunity in the Middle East, yet his international career has continued uninterrupted as he remains part of Portugal’s plans. A return to England could provide both United and the midfielder with fresh impetus midway through a demanding campaign.
Whether Amorim will be in charge by that point is less certain. INEOS invested heavily during the summer, spending £216 million to rebuild the attacking line, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe expects Champions League qualification as a minimum. With pressure growing after recent results, Amorim knows that only an upturn in form will secure the chance to influence United’s winter business.