Manchester United May Trigger Casemiro’s Contract Option Through Starts
Manchester United is in a critical situation regarding midfielder Casemiro’s contract status. The Brazilian international has the opportunity to trigger an extension of his contract with the club through a specified number of starts this season.
Contract Details of Casemiro
Casemiro, at 33 years old, can secure an automatic extension of his contract until 2027 if he reaches a target of 35 starting appearances in all competitions. Currently, Manchester United is in an unusual position. They have no European commitments this season and were eliminated early from both domestic cup tournaments. This has resulted in the club expected to play a maximum of 40 games, marking the fewest in a completed season since 1914-15.
Current Game Status
- Casemiro has started 18 matches this season, all in the Premier League.
- To meet his target, he needs to start every remaining game, with 17 remaining fixtures.
- He did not play in the Carabao Cup against Grimsby Town and only appeared as a substitute in the FA Cup against Brighton.
- Due to suspension, he also missed crucial league matches against Brentford and Aston Villa.
Performance and Impact
Despite these challenges, Casemiro has made a significant impact. He has scored four goals this season in crucial matches against Chelsea and Brighton, contributing in draws versus Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth. He has only started in two of United’s losses against Arsenal and Everton.
Financial Aspects of the Transfer
Casemiro joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in August 2022 for a fee of £60 million (approximately $80.7 million), with the potential for an additional £10 million in add-ons, which are unlikely to materialize. His initial wage was set at £350,000 per week, but this has decreased to below £300,000 this season due to wage cuts across the squad for failing to qualify for the Champions League.
Future Considerations
If Casemiro manages to hit his target and if Manchester United qualifies for the Champions League, his salary would revert to its original amount, exceeding £18 million for the final year of his contract. However, sources close to the club consider this scenario unlikely.
Manchester United retains the option to extend Casemiro’s contract for an additional year, regardless of his starting appearances. Alternatively, they could negotiate a new deal at a reduced rate, though no discussions have been initiated at this time.
Strategic Implications
The management under Darren Fletcher recently featured Casemiro in the Burnley match, but he was omitted for the Brighton fixture, making it difficult for him to meet the necessary starts. With Michael Carrick’s appointment, there may be an opportunity for Casemiro to secure more playing time, as Carrick’s formation appears to favor deeper midfield roles.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how Manchester United will navigate the complexities surrounding Casemiro’s contract and playing time.
