Even a few days back, not many Real Madrid fans would have even imagined that Casemiro could end up departing Santiago Bernabeu this summer. Things move fast in football though and now, it looks like only a matter of time before we see the Brazilian midfielder in a Manchester United shirt. Of course, if or when he completes his exit, he will leave as a club legend.
Casemiro won five Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey and several more pieces of silverware during his time with Los Blancos. He was also the missing piece of the puzzle, who turned Real Madrid back into a dominant force in Europe.
It will be sad to see him depart the club but at the same time, all good things must come to an end. Also, receiving a transfer fee of €60 million plus €10 million in add-ons for a 30-year-old defensive midfielder might have been too good of an offer to turn down. As tweeted out by Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid have accepted all details of the bid.
Ancelotti has given his thoughts on the entire situation as well. As reported by ESPN, the Real Madrid manager said in a news conference:
"“He wants to try a new challenge, a new opportunity. The club and I understand it. Casemiro — with what he’s done at this club, and with the person he is — we have to respect this desire he has.”"
Ancelotti has given his thoughts on Casemiro leaving Real Madrid for Manchester United
Casemiro was a key player for Real Madrid last season as well, and played a major role in their Champions League and La Liga triumphs.
At the same time though, there has been a feeling for a while that Real Madrid have started building their midfield for the future already. Federico Valverde has been at the club for a while. On the other hand, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni have been signed in recent transfer windows as well.
Interestingly, it does not feel like Real Madrid will try to sign a replacement for Casemiro this summer, and will instead depend on the squad that they already have.