Michael Carrick welcomes key midfielders back to Carrington as the Red Devils chase a third-place finish and prepare an emotional Old Trafford farewell for the departing Casemiro.
Manchester United are preparing for their final home fixture of the 2025/26 season as Michael Carrick’s side host Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.
The 12:30pm kick-off could mark the last appearance at Old Trafford for several members of United’s squad, with Casemiro expected to receive a huge ovation from supporters ahead of his anticipated departure when his contract expires this summer.
United had been targeting maximum points from their final three matches of the campaign, but were frustrated by a disappointing 0-0 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens was among the few bright spots for the Reds on an otherwise flat evening.
With both Liverpool and Aston Villa also dropping points over the weekend, United require just one more point from their final two league games to confirm a third-place finish in the Premier League.
Casemiro returns to United training
Casemiro missed United's draw with Sunderland last weekend due to a minor injury, and his absence was very much felt.
There have been some worries that, with the player leaving as soon as his contract expires at the end of the season, he may have already played his final game for the club if he cannot recover in time.
However, United have since confirmed that the Brazilian international, who is set to play a big role at the World Cup this summer, has returned to full training.
The expectation is that he will be able to start against Nottingham Forest in what will be his final fixture at Old Trafford as a Red.
The side also confirmed that Manuel Ugarte, another absentee from the Sunderland tie, is back in training.
United initiating Casemiro replacement plan
Amid Casemiro's pending departure, the club has already begun planning for the Summer transfer window.
Roundtable revealed earlier this week that the club are starting to make significant moves regarding replacements for Casemiro, as well as bolstering their midfield options
It is thought that the club are still keen on Carlos Baleba from Brighton as a possible midfield signing, while West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, a highly rated young midfielder in the Premier League, is creeping up United’s list.
While Elliot Anderson remains the club‘s number one choice to replace Casemiro this summer, his high price tag of up to £100 million, plus intense interest for Manchester City, means United are also looking at other options should the transfer not materialise.