Ferdinand says Man Utd midfielder 'unhappy' and will leave in January

Rio Ferdinand believes Casemiro isn't "happy" with a substitute role at Manchester United and will leave in this transfer window.

The Brazilian international was a key figure at the start of Amorim’s tenure but has been relegated to the bench in recent matches.

After a lackluster performance against Newcastle United, Casemiro has not played a single minute in United’s last two games.

In Manchester United’s FA Cup third-round clash against Arsenal on Sunday, Amorim opted to substitute Kobbie Mainoo for 21-year-old academy graduate Toby Collyer ahead of extra time, overlooking the five-time Champions League winner.

Collyer’s introduction proved effective as United held off Arsenal and triumphed in a penalty shootout.

Casemiro enjoyed a glittering career at Real Madrid, where he made over 300 appearances and won five Champions League titles and three La Liga trophies.

United signed him for £70 million in 2022, and he initially impressed, featuring in 51 matches across all competitions in his first season.

However, the 2023-24 campaign saw a significant decline in his form, with pundits like Jamie Carragher urging him to consider retirement from top-level football.

His struggles have continued under Amorim, leading Ferdinand to believe that a departure may be imminent.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand addressed Casemiro’s situation:"Is the player happy to be on the bench? I don’t think Casemiro will be happy.

"At any point in his career, he’s never been on the bench. If he’s on the bench now and an offer comes in, he’d listen to it. If they get an offer they require, it wouldn’t be difficult to happen."

Ferdinand added that United’s preference for Collyer over Casemiro signals a shift in priorities:"You can see now they are bringing on Toby Collyer. If Casemiro wants to go and play football, who are we to stand in his way at this stage of his career?"

Ferdinand lauded Collyer’s performance against Arsenal, noting his energy and composure.

"Toby Collyer was excellent when he came on. The energy levels were huge, through the roof. Testament to him," he said.

Manchester United are expected to trim their squad before the transfer window closes.

Marcus Rashford is reportedly keen to leave in search of a fresh start, while Joshua Zirkzee—who scored the winning penalty against Arsenal—has been linked with a return to Italy.

United, the reigning FA Cup holders, will face Leicester City in the fourth round of the competition. They currently sit 13th in the Premier League and are set to return to league action against bottom-placed Southampton on Thursday night.

The coming weeks could see significant changes at Old Trafford as Amorim reshapes his squad to address the club’s struggles.