Casemiro disrespected by Sir Jim Ratcliffe

Manchester United’s new ownership structure has brought a more direct tone to decision-making.

That shift in communication has not been without consequence.

The impending departure of Casemiro is understood to have been influenced by comments made earlier this year from the top of the club.

According to The Sun, the midfielder say he felt “disrespected” by remarks from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who spoke openly in March about high-earning players signed before the INEOS-led regime took control.

Ratcliffe acknowledged that several senior players were not acquisitions the current leadership would have made themselves, describing them as part of an inherited squad structure.

Casemiro was among those referenced, comments that were noted internally and did not sit comfortably with the Brazilian or his representatives.

While the intention was to underline financial accountability and explain the club’s reset, the messaging was interpreted by those close to Casemiro as signalling that his future no longer aligned with United’s long-term plans.

That perception came despite the midfielder’s continued involvement on the pitch.

Casemiro has started 24 matches this season, contributing five goals and remaining a key figure during periods when United required stability and experience in midfield.

United had attempted to move him on in both 2024 and during last winter’s transfer window, with interest coming from the Saudi Pro League.

However, his £350,000-per-week salary proved prohibitive, resulting in no agreement being reached.

Casemiro ultimately remained, seeing out his contract rather than forcing a mid-season exit.

Signed from Real Madrid for £70 million in 2022, he was initially viewed as a transformative addition, bringing pedigree and leadership to a rebuilding side.

Less than three years later, his departure reflects the sharper, less sentimental approach now guiding decisions at Old Trafford.

For Casemiro, the clarity provided by Ratcliffe’s comments appears to have confirmed that his future lay elsewhere, even if his performances suggested he still had more to offer.