Manchester United’s interim manager, Michael Carrick, has officially announced that Casemiro will not feature in the club’s final Premier League match of the season against Brighton. The Brazilian midfielder, who arrived from Real Madrid in 2022 for a reported £70 million, has played his last game in a Red Devils shirt—a 3-2 home victory over Nottingham Forest last weekend.

An emotional farewell at Old Trafford

The 34-year-old’s departure marks the end of an era at Manchester United. Carrick, reflecting on Casemiro’s contributions, stated: « We had agreed that last week would be his final match. I think it went as well as we could have hoped, and he was fantastic. I’ve spoken enough about what he’s brought to my team since I arrived and to the club as a whole. Yes, it was the right time for him to bring his career to a close. »

Casemiro, a five-time UEFA Champions League winner, leaves with a third-place finish in the Premier League this season, helping secure United’s spot in next year’s tournament.

Inter Miami poised to seal free transfer

Rumors of Casemiro’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) have intensified, with Inter Miami reportedly leading the race to sign the World Cup-winning midfielder as a free agent. The lure of playing alongside Lionel Messi in Florida appears too strong to resist after four seasons in England.

Carrick revealed that Casemiro played an active role in the decision-making process, emphasizing that balance was key for the final matchday. « I think it was simply the right time for Case. He also had a part in this decision. There was a question of balance regarding the last match. We’re not done yet—the season isn’t over for us. We’re fully aware of that, » Carrick added.

Carrick’s future in the spotlight

With Casemiro’s exit finalized, all eyes now turn to Carrick’s own future. The former United legend has impressed during his interim spell, and insiders suggest a permanent contract is imminent. While no official announcement has been made, Carrick hinted that clarity will come « very soon. »

When pressed on the timeline, he replied with a smile: « Yes, we said it would be at the end of the season, didn’t we? We’re not far off now—just a few days away. I told you the other day that things would become clearer, and they will. But for now, I can’t say any more. »

United’s squad ready for Brighton showdown

Manchester United head into their final fixture in strong shape, though a key defensive absentee remains. Carrick confirmed that defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the game due to back surgery but added that striker Benjamin Sesko is likely to return to the squad.

The Red Devils face a determined Brighton side fighting for a European spot, while United can celebrate an already secured top-four finish and Champions League qualification for next season.