Manchester United’s interim manager, Michael Carrick, has officially announced that Casemiro will not feature in the club’s last Premier League fixture of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion. The Brazilian midfielder, whose impending move to Inter Miami alongside Lionel Messi has been widely discussed, concluded his Red Devils career with an emotional farewell at Old Trafford.
The end of an era at Old Trafford
The 34-year-old defensive midfielder, acquired from Real Madrid in a headline-grabbing £70 million transfer in 2022, played his final match for the club last weekend—a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest. Carrick, who took charge in December, confirmed that the timing of Casemiro’s departure had been mutually agreed.
« There was a sense that last week’s game would be his last, » Carrick explained. « I think it went as well as we could have hoped, to be honest, and he was fantastic. I’ve spoken enough about Casemiro and what he’s brought to my team since I’ve been here and to the club as a whole. Yes, it was the right moment for him to call it a day. »
Inter Miami poised to secure Casemiro’s signature
Rumors of Casemiro’s switch to Major League Soccer are intensifying, with Inter Miami widely tipped to sign the free agent this summer. The Brazilian international appears set to swap the rigors of English football for the Florida sunshine after four seasons in Manchester. Carrick revealed that Casemiro played an active role in the decision to step aside for the final league game.
« I think it was just the right time for Case, and he had a say in that decision, » Carrick noted. « There’s an element of balance when it comes to the final matchday. We’re not done yet—the season isn’t over for us, and we’re fully aware of that. » Casemiro’s exit leaves a void in United’s midfield, where his experience was pivotal in securing a third-place finish and Champions League qualification.
Carrick’s future in the spotlight
With Casemiro’s departure now confirmed, attention turns to Carrick’s own future. The former United legend, who has impressed during his temporary tenure, is expected to be handed a permanent contract in the coming days. While no official announcement has been made, Carrick hinted that fans won’t have to wait much longer for clarity.
« We said it would happen at the end of the season, didn’t we? » he said with a smile. « We’re getting close now—just a few days away. I told you the other day that things would become clearer soon, and they will. For now, that’s all I can share. »
Brighton clash: United’s lineup and fitness updates
As United prepare for their final Premier League outing, Carrick provided an update on squad fitness. While defensive stalwart Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined following back surgery, attacking midfielder Benjamin Sesko is expected to return to the fold. The Red Devils, already guaranteed a top-four finish and Champions League spot, face a Brighton side fighting for a European place. Despite the absence of key personnel, Carrick’s men head into the match with confidence.