Former star Gareth Barry believes Manchester United is making a serious mistake by deciding to part ways with Casemiro at the end of the season, despite the Brazilian midfielder still maintaining significant influence.
Manchester United is facing a major departure as Casemiro confirms he will leave Old Trafford after his current contract ends.Transferred from Real Madrid for £60 million in 2023, the 34-year-old star has experienced ups and downs in England. However, in a turbulent season like this year, Casemiro has emerged as one of the most stable and composed performers in the "Red Devils" lineup.
Despite the contract having a clause allowing an extension of 12 months, Manchester United's leadership seems to have decided not to activate it to pave the way for younger changes.
Commenting on this move, former Premier League champion Gareth Barry believes his former club will soon feel regret. According to Barry, the experience of a seasoned midfielder is something not easily replaced by money or young talents.
“I think they might regret that,” Barry shared with Metro. “Based on my own experience, I think when you get older and more mature, football becomes easier.
I understand why Casemiro has lost some of his speed advantages, but his statistics—from defensive ability in both penalty areas to goals scored—are something few current midfielders achieve.”
The former England midfielder also emphasized that Man Utd missed the chance to retain a spiritual leader: “I think even if it was just a one-year contract extension, they probably missed a good opportunity. Watching him play recently, it's clear Casemiro still has the ability to influence the game. Finding someone to replace him will be an extremely difficult task.”
In reality, the problem of replacing Casemiro is becoming a tough challenge for Man Utd. Their top target is Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.who is currently being aggressively pursued by their arch-rival Manchester City. Man City wants Anderson as a backup plan if Rodri might leave to join Real Madrid.
Delays in personnel management and the decision to let a star like Casemiro leave as a free agent could leave Man Utd severely short of midfield personnel in the upcoming season.