- Casemiro is leaving Man Utd on a free transfer
- Brazilian midfielder has paid tribute to team-mate
- Star has made just three United appearances
If 100 Manchester United fans were asked for one word to describe Casemiro ahead of his exit this summer, “class” would be a popular pick. The 34-year-old has been class-personified all the way throughout his fruitful farewell tour this season, on and off the pitch.
Casemiro said goodbye to Old Trafford in Sunday’s 3-2 win against Nottingham Forest, which confirmed a third-place Premier League finish. While United finish the season at Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend, with his parting objective already complete, it feels unlikely the Brazilian will travel to the Amex Stadium.
As part of his exit duties, Casemiro recently spoke to Red Devils legend Rio Ferdinand in a 30-minute interview at Old Trafford. Inside the dressing room, when asked about the squad’s loudest players, he made sure to give flowers to a player not many would have expected.
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Casemiro honours Tom Heaton
As well as Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro hailed United’s third goalkeeper, Tom Heaton. He told Ferdinand:
“He is very important. Very important for us. He pushes the training, he pushes in the game, of course, he doesn’t play, but he pushes every time. For me, everyone needs this guy; he helps the room so much.”
Heaton graduated from United’s academy before enjoying a long, successful career in the Premier League and EFL. He returned to Manchester in 2021 and has made three appearances, last featuring in February 2023.
Heaton signed a one-year contract extension to remain United’s third-choice goalkeeper last summer. The 40-year-old, hugely popular in the dressing room, has reportedly agreed to stay put for another season.
Man Utd’s goalkeeper situation
Heaton’s decision to remain at United for another year eases the pressure ahead of what promises to be a summer of change in the goalkeeping department.
Senne Lammens has established himself as Michael Carrick’s starting goalkeeper. The 23-year-old Belgian has enjoyed an exceptional debut campaign after his £18million arrival from Royal Antwerp.
Lammens’ back-up, Altay Bayindir, is widely expected to depart the club after three years. He appears primed to return to Turkey, having made 16 appearances since joining from Fenerbahce.
Andre Onana has spent the season on loan at Trabzonspor but will return to Carrington this summer. Trabzonspor are covering his full wages, which will increase after United’s return to the Champions League, potentially pricing the club out.
The 30-year-old doesn’t have a future at Old Trafford, though, and it would be a surprise if he were still a United player beyond the summer. Carrick is set to enter the market for a new back-up goalkeeper who fits into the wage structure.
