Should Manchester United extend Casemiro’s contract?

This weekend, Casemiro grabbed his 20th goal for Manchester United and his 67th of his career, in his 134th game for The Red Devils.

The former Real Madrid man took to the field in United’s trip to Nottingham Forest this weekend, opening the scoring in the 34th minute by linking up with midfield partner Bruno Fernandes.

Whilst United failed to make it a fourth win in a row, with Amad Diallo clawing back a 2-2 draw, Casemiro put in another strong showing, proving why he’s one of the first names on the teamsheet.

However, this hasn’t always been the way for the veteran midfielder, with his future at the club occasionally being called into question.

Two years ago, under Erik ten Hag, Casemiro looked to be at the end of his Manchester United journey, with Cristiano Ronaldo trying to line up a second reunion at Al-Nassr.

The Brazil international was put back in centre-back to cover various injury woes, whilst also picking up a knock, having ruled him out for two months, seeing him make 32 appearances through the campaign.

Despite disagreeing with ten Hag’s decision to use him in defence, saying the Dutchman’s tactics exploited his weaknesses, Casemiro decided to remain at Old Trafford instead of jumping ship.

Then, in October 2024, ten Hag was sacked by United, seeing Ruben Amorim come in, offering Casemiro a new chance to establish himself in the United line-up.

Since the Portuguese manager’s arrival, we’ve seen a reenergised Casemiro, especially this season.

Amorim and his coaches gave each of the squad a personalised conditioning plan for over the summer break, ready to come back in good shape with the added intention of avoiding injuries throughout the season.

So far it seems to have worked and despite being the eldest in the squad, the Carington coaches have reported Casemiro to be in one of the best shapes.

This has also been reflected on the pitch, with the Brazil international popping up at vital moments, not just with his three goals and assist in 9 games, but also in defence.

Casemiro is in the top 75% of all Premier League defensive midfielders for blocks, tackles, aerial duels won and duels won according to stats from FotMob.

With such a massive impact being made on the pitch by the defensive midfielder despite his age of 33-years-old, his departure this summer would make a massive impact.

However, United are looking at cutting down their wage bill due to their current financial struggles, and with Casemiro on £300,000 per week, he’s one of their top earners.

As such, losing the midfielder would save a massive chunk of their wages, with this summer seeing United recruiting new players on lower salaries than those who departed the club.

For example, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford both departed on loan with salaries of £300,000 per week and over, whilst Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo were brought in to replace them on £200,00 per week.

Already, United are looking for a long-term replacement for Casemiro, with the likes of Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson being the front runners for a move.

However, with how limited United are for options in the middle of the pitch, especially with Amorim seemingly unsure where to play Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte failing to establish himself at Old Trafford, retaining the veteran midfielder could be a good move.

Whilst United have the option to extend Casemiro’s contract by 12 months, this would be done on his current wage, which the club are hoping to avoid by negotiating a new contract.

If The Red Devils can negotiate a wage cut for the Brazil international, who’s being lined up to captain the national team at the 2026 World Cup, then this could be a win-win for Ruben Amorim; a reliable defensive midfielder used to his playstyle, and a natural leader to support the team and the training of any incoming young midfielders.