Casemiro’s Resurgence Amid Contract Uncertainty

Casemiro has played a crucial role in Amorim’s squad this season, starting 15 out of 16 Premier League matches he was available for and scoring four goals for Manchester United.

As he approaches the final six months of his contract at Old Trafford, his future remains uncertain. However, his importance for the remainder of the season is clear, especially as United strives to secure a spot in the Champions League, having made a significant leap back into the Premier League’s top five following their Boxing Day victory over Newcastle United.

The Brazilian, a five-time European champion with Real Madrid, has experienced a remarkable resurgence that has not gone unnoticed by Jamie Carragher. Just over 18 months ago, Carragher was among Casemiro’s most vocal critics. However, prior to United’s Boxing Day win over Newcastle, he commended Casemiro’s return to form, noting that he appeared to be in better physical condition and “looks almost a stone lighter” than during that disappointing match against Crystal Palace in May 2024, where United suffered a 4-0 defeat.

When Carragher was reminded of his previous comments about Casemiro, he appeared somewhat embarrassed.

“Not quite yet (laughs),” Carragher remarked on Sky Sports.

“Fair play to him, but Manchester United finished 15th last season. When I look at him, he looks like a different player physically. I remember that night at Crystal Palace; he seems almost a stone lighter. Given his contract situation, it’s unlikely he will be moving on, and with the deals since they last won the league title, it’s clear they need to consider reinforcements in January or the summer.”

Previously, Casemiro had faced criticism from Carragher after a poor performance against Crystal Palace, where United was shocked by goals from Michael Olise, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Tyrick Mitchell.

Carragher stated at that time: “Casemiro should recognize that he may only have a few games left at the top level. He should contemplate a move to MLS or Saudi Arabia. This has to end, as we are witnessing one of the greats of modern football. I recall the saying, ‘leave the football before the football leaves you.’ The football has left him. At this top level, it may be time for him to step away. He is too talented to be enduring performances that lead to ridicule.”

With the recent 1-0 victory over Newcastle on Boxing Day, in which Patrick Dorgu scored the decisive goal with a stunning volley, United has reclaimed a position in the Premier League’s top five. Casemiro started the match but was substituted for Leny Yoro in the 60th minute. As seen in several games this season, United struggled to maintain control after Casemiro’s exit but managed to secure essential points heading into the New Year.

As Carragher highlighted, Casemiro’s substantial weekly wage of approximately £350,000 ($452,296) could influence the club’s decision against renewing his contract when it expires on June 30, 2026. He will be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs starting January 1, and Amorim has confirmed that the midfielder’s contract situation remains undecided.

Regardless of what lies ahead in the next six months, Casemiro is expected to play a vital role as Manchester United pursues a return to Champions League contention by the season’s end, aiming to silence his critics along the way.