Manchester United’s midfield talisman, Casemiro, is reportedly on the verge of becoming the first notable departure as part of substantial financial cutbacks at Old Trafford. This revelation comes from insights shared by football finance expert, Stefan Borson.
Under the stewardship of Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils are languishing in the lower echelons of the Premier League, having suffered their third defeat of the campaign to Brentford. Despite a summer transfer spree exceeding £200 million spearheaded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, the club’s struggles have persisted. Football Insider has divulged that the Brazilian midfielder is earmarked as the primary casualty of impending fiscal belt-tightening.
The recruitment strategy at Old Trafford has been under scrutiny for over a decade, with the likes of Casemiro, Antony, and Jadon Sancho attracting hefty fees and wages sans significant impact. Casemiro, who made his switch from Real Madrid in 2022 for approximately £70 million, is nearing the conclusion of his tenure with an option for a one-year extension.
Given the burden of the 33-year-old’s staggering £375,000-a-week salary juxtaposed with his dwindling influence on the pitch, Borson, a former financial adviser to Man City, believes Casemiro will spearhead those departing in a bid to mitigate the club’s wage expenditure.
Speaking to Football Insider, Borson remarked, “I can’t envisage United triggering that option. The financials simply don’t add up for a player of his age and questionable fitness, despite his improved vigour this season. United’s accounts suggest they harbour a unique strategy to reclaim glory while significantly slashing their playing staff wages, potentially by £50 million.”
He continued, “Casemiro’s likely departure is integral to this financial reformation—aiming to reduce the wage bill well below £250 million.”
Furthermore, Borson highlighted that Casemiro commands nearly £20 million annually, consuming around 8-10 per cent of the club’s wage allocations. He confidently asserted, “There’s scarcely any chance of retaining Casemiro, simply owing to his exorbitant wages.”
Off the pitch, manager Amorim faces mounting pressure to reverse United’s fortunes. Yet, his job appears safe for now, albeit amidst personal torment. His wife, Maria Joao, revealed to Prime Video Sport, “Ruben endures sleepless nights from the abuse. I’ve asked him if it’s all worthwhile, and he insists this is part of his commitment.”
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