Overview
- United will not trigger the one-year option or offer a new deal, a decision made well in advance as part of wider midfield planning.
- Reporting says the extension hinged on a starts threshold of about 35, which became impractical after cup eliminations reduced available fixtures.
- Casemiro requested the early announcement to curb speculation and issued an emotional message pledging full focus for the remainder of the season.
- Club sources link the call to his status as a top earner, with the freed wages to support reinforcements, and fans will be able to honor him at the final home game against Nottingham Forest.
- The club is already assessing summer midfield options, with reported interest in Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton.