Manchester United have officially bid farewell to six players as Michael Carrick’s squad overhaul continues at speed. The club are set to return to European football’s elite next season after the former skipper’s stint in the dugout brought success to Old Trafford.
Under Carrick, the previously faltering side recorded 12 wins, four draws and just two defeats, propelling them to third place and securing a Champions League spot. Now, with his position made permanent, the ex-Middlesbrough boss is parting ways with a number of players as the new month gets underway.
Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia, Sonny Aljofree, Malachi Sharpe and James Bailey have all cut ties with the club following the expiry of their contracts. The exits of Sancho and Casemiro have slashed a staggering £700,000 from the weekly wage bill, with the pair each pocketing £350,000 per week at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian midfielder confirmed his departure back in January, having become a beloved star to supporters during his four-year spell at the club. Casemiro lifted the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his spell, and despite fans’ efforts to persuade him otherwise, the 34-year-old stood firm on his choice.
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Declaring his affection for United on social media, the midfielder said: “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. These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives.
View 3 ImagesCasemiro and Jadon Sancho have both departed United(Image: Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
“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.”
By contrast, Sancho faced a more difficult journey at United after his 2021 switch from Borussia Dortmund. The £73million winger turned out 83 times for the club, scoring 12 goals and contributing six assists.
He spent much of his Old Trafford career away on loan, initially at Dortmund, then at Chelsea, and finally at Aston Villa. United had attempted to move Sancho on during the previous two summer windows without success, and will now be forced to accept his departure on a free transfer this year.
View 3 ImagesTyrell Malacia has also left United(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Malacia arrived in 2022 and showed early promise, clocking up 39 appearances in all competitions during his debut campaign. However, a severe knee injury derailed any momentum and he managed just 12 outings following his return in November 2024.
Aljofree, Bailey and Sharpe are set to leave United’s academy and will receive assistance from the Old Trafford hierarchy in securing new clubs. Meanwhile, Carrick is preparing to welcome his first summer arrival as Ederson completes his move following the World Cup.
The Atalanta midfielder will join for an initial £35million, with an additional £3.8million in add-ons. Further targets in midfield include Mateus Fernandes, Alex Scott, Carlos Baleba and Aurelien Tchouameni.
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