Casemiro made a bold declaration upon joining Manchester United

Casemiro is poised to depart Manchester United this summer, having fulfilled a pledge he made more than three years ago.

The ex-Real Madrid star reportedly messaged his agent in 2022, vowing to address the team’s issues following the dreadful defeat at Brentford under Erik ten Hag early in the 2022/23 season. As he prepares to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires, United are close to securing a return to Europe’s elite competition, despite Monday night’s home defeat to Leeds.

Following a challenging period at the Theatre of Dreams, Casemiro’s purple patch for United has arrived at an opportune moment, with vital contributions keeping their European ambitions alive. He also scored the goal as 10-man United chased a point against Leeds.

A Telegraph report from early 2023 revealed that United’s poor start to that campaign, including losses to Brighton and Brentford, spurred the five-time Champions League winner to swap Madrid for Manchester.

Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.

The Brazil international finalised a £70million summer switch to the Premier League, bringing an end to his trophy-laden stint at Los Blancos. Casemiro’s time in the Spanish capital concluded after Real signed of Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco.

Following a dismal 4-0 loss to the Bees, the then-30-year-old is said to have messaged his agent: “Tell them I’ll fix this.”

Casemiro’s journey during his four-year spell at United has been anything but straightforward, with him facing criticism from the likes of Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville.

The former Liverpool defender, in particular, delivered a damning assessment of the Brazilian’s stint at Old Trafford, calling for Casemiro to quit the Premier League. However, this season’s performances have forced Carragher to backtrack and acknowledge the midfielder had silenced his doubters.

Confirming his impending exit, he said: “I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life. From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club.

“It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months. We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed.”

In a recent question and answer session with the club, he added: “The affection they have for the club is what I will miss most. Of course, the club, but the fans are so connected to the club regardless of the result.

“Next game, they will be there supporting the players and the club, that is what I will miss most.”

Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.

Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.