Casemiro Misses Match for the First Time in Months as United Draw with Sunderland

Casemiro was absent from Manchester United duty for the first time in nearly six months against Sunderland, despite no pre-warning about his lack of availability before Saturday’s game from interim head coach Michael Carrick.

The 34-year-old is set to leave the Red Devils upon expiration of his contract at the end of the 2025/26 season, but his absence on Saturday was unrelated.

Michael Carrick provided an update on the Brazilian midfielder’s whereabouts, who hadn’t missed a game since December 2025 for the club.

Michael Carrick told MUTV before kick-off at the Stadium of Light, “Case, he’ll be fine for next week, it’s nothing major. Manu [Ugarte] had a problem with his back in training, so that’s the issues ironed out.

“We’ve got a really strong team today and I’m looking forward to seeing the boys play and perform, and finish the season strong,” Carrick finished saying pre-match, before his side’s eventual 0-0 draw with the Black Cats.

Casemiro’s absence was felt in the match, where Mason Mount deputised but failed to offer the same impact in the no.8 role. United failed to win a fourth successive game and didn’t quite have the same control over the midfield as they’ve become accustomed to.

It was a new experience for Manchester United under Michael Carrick, who has had Casemiro available in every game since his appointment on January 13. The Brazilian started 18 matches in a row prior to his absence at Sunderland, in a season where his contributions have been vital.

As Michael Carrick revealed, Casemiro should return to United action against Nottingham Forest on May 17, as he says his final farewell to Old Trafford in the club’s final home game of the season.