MANCHESTER UNITED star Casemiro was too emotional to attend a post-match press conference after his side’s win over Nottingham Forest as he prepares to leave Old Trafford.
The veteran star played his final home game as a Red Devil in United’s 3-2 victory on Sunday.
Casemiro, 34, joined from Real Madrid in a £70million move in 2022 and has become a fan favourite, but will leave on a free transfer this summer.
The Brazilian has made 161 appearances for United, scoring 26 goals and winning two trophies.
He has forged a strong connection with the fanbase and was due to speak after the Forest game to reflect on his time at the club.
But the midfielder was not in the right headspace to speak to the media after becoming emotional at the end of the game.
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Casemiro did give a brief speech to the fans after the full time whistle as he was presented with a framed shirt.
“Thank you and take care everyone. Thank you to the players, thank you to the staff. The best thing in this club is you fans.”
He later penned a message to supporters on Instagram, writing: “There are places we pass through in life… and there are places that become part of who we are. Manchester will forever be my home.
“To the city, the club, and every supporter, my sincerest thank you.
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“These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives.
“There simply aren’t enough words to describe the happiness and warmth we’ve felt here.
“Thank you for every cheer, every memory, and for making us feel at home from the very first day. Forever a Red Devil.”
His manager Michael Carrick hailed Casemiro as “fantastic” before the Forest game and praised the experienced star for “giving absolutely everything” despite knowing he was on his way out.
Carrick said: “I think he’s been fantastic for us, for me personally, for us as a group.
“I think what he’s given us, I’ve said it before, I think the clarity helps of knowing the situation, and for him to get his head in a place of where you give absolutely everything for, in, in every aspect, knowing, that it was going to come to an end at the end of the season.
“He’s obviously had some ups and downs just like we all have in football and over the years, but to finish so strongly and to see that connection that he’s got with the supporters, it’s really good to see.”
Casemiro hasn’t confirmed his next club but the player has been linked with a move to David Beckham‘s Inter Miami.
He started his career with Brazilian side Sao Paulo before bagging a move to the Bernabeu in 2013.
Casemiro became one of the best midfielders in the world during his time with Los Blancos as he won three La Liga titles and five Champions League trophies.
