Manchester United’s interim manager Michael Carrick has officially confirmed that midfielder Casemiro will not feature in the Red Devils’ final Premier League fixture of the season against Brighton. The Brazilian international, whose potential move to Inter Miami alongside Lionel Messi has been widely discussed, played his last match for the club in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford last weekend.
An emotional chapter closes for Casemiro at Old Trafford
Carrick revealed the circumstances surrounding Casemiro’s departure, emphasizing that the timing had been mutually agreed upon. ‘We had essentially decided that his last match would be last week,’ Carrick stated. ‘It all went as well as we could have hoped, and he was outstanding. I’ve spoken extensively about what Casemiro has brought to my team since I arrived, as well as to the club as a whole. Yes, it was the right moment for him to bring his Manchester United journey to a close.’
The 34-year-old, who joined from Real Madrid in a headline-grabbing transfer worth up to £70 million in 2022, leaves Old Trafford having contributed significantly to United’s third-place finish this season. His experience and leadership in midfield have been pivotal in securing Champions League football for the club next term.
Inter Miami emerges as the next destination
With Major League Soccer rumored to be his next stop, Casemiro appears set to trade the rigors of English football for the Florida sunshine. Carrick noted that the Brazilian himself played a role in the decision-making process regarding his absence from the Brighton game. ‘I think it was simply the right time for Case,’ Carrick explained. ‘He was also involved in this choice. There’s a balance to consider when it comes to the final match. We’re not done yet—the season isn’t over for us, and we’re fully aware of that.’
United’s focus shifts to the future
As Casemiro prepares to embark on a new chapter, attention now turns to Manchester United’s long-term plans. Carrick, who has impressed during his interim spell, is widely expected to be handed a permanent managerial role. While an official announcement is still pending, he hinted that clarity on his future will arrive within days. ‘We had said it would be at the end of the season, hadn’t we? We’re almost there—just a few days away,’ Carrick remarked with a smile. ‘I told you the other day that things would become clearer soon, and they will. But for now, I can’t say any more than that.’
Preparations for the Brighton showdown
With the season’s climax approaching, Manchester United are nearing full fitness ahead of their encounter with Brighton. Carrick confirmed that defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the game due to a back operation but welcomed the probable return of striker Benjamin Sesko to the squad. The Red Devils, already secured in third place and Champions League-bound, face a determined Brighton side fighting for a European spot of their own.
