Manchester United are once again at a crossroads in midfield. A player many fans thought was on the way out has forced his way back into the picture, while others around him continue to struggle for form and minutes.
Casemiro’s Manchester United story has taken another sharp turn, but that does not mean his future at Old Trafford is secure.
In fact, the coming months could be decisive, not just for Casemiro, but also for other midfield names like Manuel Ugarte and forgotten academy man Toby Collyer.
From Wembley Hero to Watching From the Stands
Few places tell Casemiro’s United story better than Wembley Stadium. In early 2023, the Brazilian midfielder was one of the first names on the team sheet.
He scored in the Carabao Cup final and helped United lift their first trophy under Erik ten Hag. Back then, he looked like the leader United had been missing for years.
Fast forward a little over a year, and the picture was very different. In the FA Cup final win over Manchester City, Casemiro did not even take part.
He was named in the squad at first, but later pulled out with a reported muscle issue.
That decision raised eyebrows. Some wondered if it was really an injury or if he had simply lost his place in the side.
On that day, Sofyan Amrabat stepped in and did the hard work in midfield. United won again at Wembley, but this time without Casemiro playing a part on the pitch. For many supporters, it felt like the end of an era.
A Surprise Comeback Under Ruben Amorim
Football moves fast. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, Casemiro has somehow found a second wind.
At 33 years old, many expected his role to shrink even more. Instead, he has worked his way back into the starting eleven.
Early signs were mixed. Amorim himself admitted that at one point Casemiro was behind every other midfielder in the pecking order, including young Toby Collyer.
But slowly, the Brazilian improved. His fitness got better, his sharpness returned, and his experience began to show again.
This season, Casemiro has started regularly in the Premier League. He has even chipped in with important goals, showing that he still knows how to deliver in big moments.
For a player many thought was finished at the top level, it has been a strong response.
Why United Still Need to Think Long Term
Even with his improvement, big questions remain. Casemiro is one of the highest earners at the club.
His wages are huge, and his contract is nearing its end. United, under INEOS, are trying to be smarter with money and planning.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already spoken in the past about expensive signings that did not fully work out.
Casemiro fits that category in many ways. He costs a large fee, earns a massive salary, and is now approaching the final stage of his career.
Keeping him on for another deal could block progress. United need to lower the average age of the squad and build a midfield that can last for years, not months.
Even if Casemiro is playing well now, it may still make sense to move on and free up space for younger legs.
Ugarte Struggles as Chance Slips Away
When Manuel Ugarte arrived, many believed he would be the long-term answer.
He was seen as energetic, aggressive, and perfect for Premier League football. But things have not gone to plan.
Despite strong tackling numbers on paper, Ugarte has barely featured this season.
He has started very few league games and seems to have fallen out of favour. Amorim has not hidden his disappointment either, making it clear that more was expected.
At just 24, Ugarte should be entering his best years. Instead, he is struggling for trust and time on the pitch.
Reports suggest United could even look to move him on soon, which would be a sharp and costly decision.
The Forgotten Name Who Could Change Everything
This is where Toby Collyer enters the story. The young midfielder is not a headline name.
He is not flashy. But those who have worked with him speak highly of his engine, his work rate, and his attitude.
Collyer made several appearances last season and impressed with his energy.
He covers ground quickly, presses hard, and does the ugly side of the game well. One moment that stood out was a vital defensive clearance in a tight match, showing his awareness and desire.
A loan spell was meant to help his development, but injuries have slowed him down.
Even so, there is a growing feeling that he could be useful right now. United lacks depth in midfield, and Collyer offers something different to both Casemiro and Ugarte.
A Big Decision for Amorim and INEOS
Ruben Amorim now has a tough call to make. Casemiro is playing well, but time is not on his side.
Ugarte looks short of confidence and trust. Collyer is raw but hungry.
INEOS want a clear plan. That means deciding who stays, who goes, and who deserves a real chance.
Giving Collyer minutes could help United transition away from older, expensive players without taking a big risk in the transfer market.
Casemiro’s resurgence has been impressive, but it should not cloud long-term thinking. United have made that mistake before.
Manchester United are once again at a turning point. Casemiro has shown pride and fight, proving he still has something to offer.
But football is about timing, and the club must think ahead.
Letting go of big names is never easy, especially when they are performing again. Still, the future may belong to players like Toby Collyer, who bring energy, hunger, and room to grow.
The next few months will tell us a lot about United’s direction under Amorim and INEOS. One thing is certain: the midfield rebuild is far from over.
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