Manchester United announce Casemiro exit bombshell as statement released

Casemiro will leave Manchester United when his contract expires at the end of the season. United have taken the unusual step of announcing five months before the Brazilian's contract was due to expire that he will be leaving the club this summer.

The 33-year-old moved to Old Trafford from Real Madrid in August 2022 for a fee rising to £70million, signing a four-year deal with an option for a further season. But the club have decided against triggering that extension, and the MEN understands the decision was made well before Thursday's announcement as part of their long-term planning.

The MEN also understands that Casemiro was keen to avoid incorrect speculation that the club would offer a new contract or trigger an option and asked the club to make their plans public in order to "bring external clarity" to the situation.

Casemiro, who has scored 21 goals in 146 appearances for United so far, 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."

The midfielder, who won the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup a year later, also said in a separate post on social media: "Knowing when stages come to an end.

"Knowing when to say goodbye when you feel that you will be remembered and respected forever.

"Four months to give my all for this badge and for our goal.

"Eternal respect and affection for