Ratcliffe could now sell 'exemplary' star if Man Utd don't win the Europa League - report
Manchester United have had an underwhelming Premier League campaign. They are presently 15th in the table with 39 points.
The Red Devils cannot finish higher than 12th, but they can salvage their season by winning the Europa League.
The club have a 3-0 lead after the first leg of the semi-final against Athletic Bilbao and are favourites to make the final on May 21.
If United were to win the competition, they would directly qualify for the league phase of next season’s Champions League.
Manchester Evening News now claim Casemiro’s future could depend on United’s success in the Europa League.
The midfielder has transformed his fortunes under manager Ruben Amorim and was recently praised by the Portuguese.
Casemiro’s basic wages will increase by 25 percent to £300,000 per week if United return to the Champions League.
However, his future may be uncertain if United are not in Europe.
In that case, there could be a cost-cutting exercise within the squad, given that United could play as few as 40 games next term.
M.E.N report that United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe would consider Casemiro’s departure this summer in such a scenario.
The club have actively looked to offload Casemiro over the past year. They would require £15 million to avoid a loss under the Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Casemiro’s future dependent on European success
The Brazilian had a tough 2024 with the Red Devils. He was in and out of the starting line-up.
However, there has been a surprise transformation over the last few months.
Amorim initially said that Casemiro does not suit his playing style, but the midfielder has managed to win over the manager’s confidence with his performances.
Casemiro is no longer in the prime of his career and can’t high-press opponents regularly. However, he can still operate as a deep-lying defensive midfielder.
The Brazilian has excelled with his duel-winning ability. He has also impressed with his goal contributions during the knockout phase of the Europa League.
The midfielder singlehandedly led the comeback against Lyon in the quarter-final. He won a penalty and provided two assists during the 5-4 win in the second leg (7-6 agg).
Casemiro, described as ‘exemplary‘ by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, also opened the scoring against Athletic at San Mames.
He has been in superb form, and Amorim will hope to keep him for the last year of his contract.
United are favourites to reach the Europa League final. They will likely face Tottenham Hotspur, who have beaten them thrice in all competitions this campaign.
Despite Spurs’ dominance, United have the big-game experience in finals and should fancy their chances of beating the London club at San Mames this month.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
Article written by Sri Aswin .