Michael Carrick confirms Casemiro has left Manchester United ahead of FIFA World Cup

Casemiro has left Manchester United a game early to allow him more time to prepare for the FIFA World Cup -Credit:James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images Casemiro's time at Manchester United has drawn to a close after interim boss Michael Carrick confirmed the Brazilian will not feature in the squad to face Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday, having already departed the club. The 34-year-old bid an emotional goodbye to Old Trafford during Sunday's 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd when he was substituted, before delivering a heartfelt speech on the pitch following the final whistle. Carrick has now disclosed that he determined last week that the Old Trafford season finale would serve as the Brazil international's farewell, adding that Casemiro has already left the club as he takes a break ahead of this summer's World Cup, as per The Mirror .

DR Congo expected to receive U. S. Travel Exemption for 2026 World Cup despite Ebola Outbreak Clint Dempsey warns of World Cup ‘nightmare’ scenario for USMNT as legend makes prediction Michael Carrick has said 'it was the right time' for Casemiro to depart -Credit:Lee Parker - CameraSport via Getty Images "It just felt the right time, I think, for Cassie, and it was decided, he's part of that as well, so it was the right time," he said.

"We always kind of decided that last week would be his last game, so I think that went well, as well as we all could have hoped to be honest, and he's been fantastic. "I've said a lot of things about Cassie and how well he's done for me since I've been here and for the whole club, but yeah, it was decided that it was a good time for him to finish, really. " Carrick is determined to close out the season on a strong note but intends to utilize the Amex clash to hand opportunities to some of United's emerging talents.

To listen to the latest episode of 'All Out Soccer' - CLICK HERE And while United are guaranteed to finish third regardless of Sunday's result, Carrick acknowledges that there is much at stake for Europe-chasing Brighton. "We're certainly conscious of the situation of the game and what's at stake. I think we've certainly got a responsibility for that," said Carrick.