Casemiro pays tribute to Manchester United and their fans
It's been an eventful four years for Casemiro at Old Trafford
The Brazilian midfielder has admitted he will struggle to hold back the tears when his time at Man United comes to an end, after delivering an emotional message to supporters
Author | Ryan Thomas
He is almost certain to leave United this summer after a spell at the club that has veered between silverware and sustained criticism.
Yet despite the uncertainty surrounding his future for the last couple of years Casemiro said the affection shown by supporters has remained one of the defining experiences of his career.
He has recently been in conversation with former United defender Rio Ferdinand
Speaking about his connection with the fanbase, the former Real Madrid midfielder described the backing he has received as “special”, admitting he was taken aback by the warmth shown to him from his first days in Manchester.
Casemiro arrived at United in 2022 with a formidable reputation after winning five Champions League titles with Real Madrid, and initially became a central figure under Erik ten Hag. His first season brought the League Cup and helped restore a degree of stability to United’s midfield.
The years that followed proved more difficult. Injuries, declining form and wider instability at the club led to scrutiny from pundits and supporters alike. Earlier this month, Casemiro suggested criticism from former Jamie Carragher may have been fuelled by resentment over past Champions League defeats suffered by Liverpool against his Real Madrid sides.
Even so, the 34-year-old insisted he holds no bitterness and remains grateful for his time at Manchester United. Reports surrounding his departure have prompted emotional reactions from supporters, with chants urging the midfielder to stay surfacing at Old Trafford in recent weeks.
His wife and family have enjoyed the passion that their fans have him and according to one Man United fans, they have their fan club in the corner of the Stretford End.
For a player who arrived as one of Europe’s most decorated midfielders, Casemiro’s United career has often mirrored the club’s wider struggles in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. Yet amid the inconsistency, he has remained a respected figure within the dressing room and among supporters who appreciated both his experience and commitment.
Whether or not there is one final appearance at Old Trafford before his departure is confirmed, Casemiro has made clear the bond formed with the United crowd will stay with him long after he leaves Manchester.
