Casemiro joins Inter Miami amid tampering probe
Miami, July 23
Inter Miami CF have signed Brazil national team midfielder Casemiro as he departs English Premier League side Manchester United, the MLS club said. The announcement was followed by news that the MLS launched an investigation into alleged irregularities involving the move.
Casemiro is under contract with the 2025 MLS Cup champions through the 2027 MLS Sprint Season with an option until June 2029. Additionally, Inter Miami acquired Casemiro's Discover Priority from the LA Galaxy.
He has joined an Inter Miami midfield highlighted by Rodrigo De Paul. The 2022 World Cup champion with Argentina and former Atletico Madrid star joined the Herons last summer; he is now a designated player alongside forwards Lionel Messi and German Berterame.
Casemiro confirmed in January that he and United had mutually decided to part ways after four years. In its statement, Inter Miami said it had obtained Casemiro's discovery rights from LA Galaxy as part of the transfer.
Under MLS rules, a club may place up to five players on a discovery list, giving it first option to sign any of them ahead of other league clubs. Galaxy had held that priority over Casemiro, meaning Inter Miami needed to reach an agreement with the Californian club before it could pursue him.
The 34-year-old, who was a free agent, spent the past 14 years playing in Europe for Real Madrid, FC Porto and Manchester United. He began his career in Brazil at Sao Paulo FC. Casemiro has won 21 trophies throughout his club career, including five UEFA Champions League titles and three LaLiga crowns with Real Madrid. He has 73g/61a in 663 career club appearances.
He has won 21 trophies throughout his club career, including five UEFA Champions League titles and three LaLiga crowns with Real Madrid. He has 73 goals and 61 assists in 663 career club appearances.
The superstar joins Inter Miami after representing Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. "What motivates me the most, and I think this is true for every player, is winning and continuing to grow. The project the club presented to me, along with the effort everyone made to bring me here, means a lot to me," said Casemiro.
"I'm incredibly grateful, and I can't wait to get started so I can repay that trust - not only during the 90 minutes on matchday, but every day in training as well. All I can say is thank you, and I'll give everything I have to return the affection and confidence the club has shown me," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
A 34-year-old free agent with his best years behind him joining an already stacked Inter Miami side. Sure, Casemiro was a legend at Real Madrid, but MLS is becoming a retirement league. And now there's an investigation? Classic MLS drama! This could get messy.
The discovery rights system in MLS is so confusing to me. One club holds a 'priority' and then another has to buy it? How is that fair to players? Also, Inter Miami signing another Brazilian legend - Messi, De Paul, now Casemiro. It's like a FIFA Ultimate Team! But seriously, focus on local talent too, na? We need more Indian players in top leagues, not just big names.
As a Manchester United fan, Casemiro leaving felt inevitable after last season. But seeing him join Miami with Messi and De Paul? That midfield is going to be scary for MLS defenders. Hope the investigation doesn't overshadow his debut though. The guy deserves a peaceful farewell to his European career 🏆
What impresses me most is Casemiro's attitude - "I'll give everything I have to return the affection." That's the kind of dedication we Indians respect. Whether it's cricket or football, commitment matters. But MLS needs to investigate properly, no shortcuts allowed. If there's any fishy business, the league should come down hard. 🙏
Inter Miami is basically building a World Cup-winning team in MLS. Messi, De Paul (Argentina), now Casemiro (Brazil). It's exciting for the league but also kind of unfair? How many other clubs
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