Manchester United had maintained an undefeated streak with an impressive run since post-Christmas until their run ended at home on Saturday. Fulham secured their first away win in six months, thanks to Alex Iwobi’s injury-time winner, making the scoreline 2-1 at Old Trafford.
This defeat marked their first in 2024, shattering their efforts to revive the season after tough results in the early half. Meanwhile, two of their star players, Casemiro and Raphael Varane, both had a frustrating outing with below-par performances and are now being linked with a return to Spain.
Casemiro, Raphael Varane linked with Real Madrid reunion
The Premier League giants announced IENOS Group Chief, Sir Jim Ratcliffe as their new co-owner following the purchase of minority stakes in the club. The new management under Ratcliffe is planning a major overhaul in the summer and is keen on selling some of their team stars at the end of the season.
With the club preparing for a host of changes in the squad and backroom staff ahead of the 2024–25 season, they are looking to offload some underperforming players on substantial salaries. To reduce their salary expenditure and make a budget for new arrivals in the summer while keeping finances within financial regulations.
The starlet duo of Casemiro and Raphael Varane have emerged among the names that could be listed on the market this summer, as their effectiveness in Erik ten Hag’s squad has come under scrutiny. They might depart from the club. Moreover, there has been keen interest in the duo from Saudi Arabia.
According to Fichajes, Real Madrid is considering recalling their former Brazil-French duo to Santiago Bernabeu this summer at a reduced price, as they are not in the plans of Manchester United. The La Liga outfit is closely monitoring the situation to reinforce their team for next season.
Reports indicate Casemiro’s future lies in Saudi Arabia
In recent times, the Brazil international has been speculated to reunite with his former Real Madrid teammate and friend Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, following growing interest from the Saudi Pro League club.
Moreover, Casemiro is also considering the opportunity to leave Old Trafford in the summer transfer window, understanding that he is not a priority for the Dutch manager and the club’s plans for the team.
The 32-year-old defensive midfielder enjoyed a trophy-laden tenure with Los Blancos, which includes lifting the Champions League five times. He made his sensational switch to Old Trafford in August 2022, with Manchester United paying nearly £70 million, including add-ons for his services.
However, his time at the English outfit has failed to make the desired impact, marred by regular injuries and inconsistency. This has pushed his future at the club towards uncertainty despite being under contract until 2026.
