Manchester United face Brighton in the very last Premier League game of the season – for several players, it could be a farewell to Old Trafford.
On Sunday afternoon, Michael Carrick’s men head to Brighton, and up to six players could be about to play their last game for the big club.
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United have nothing to play for in terms of the table on the last day of the season. They have already secured third place and thus Champions League play next season – a welcome comeback after being without European games this season.
Already confirmed: Two stars disappear
United have already announced that Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia will leave the club as free agents when their contracts expire next month.
Casemiro, who has reportedly chosen to move to MLS club Inter Miami, has scored nine goals in 34 games this season. He will surely start his last game at Old Trafford.
Malacia, on the other hand, has only played twice all season – both times from the bench. But he was on the bench during last week’s 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest, and could get a farewell game from Carrick. The manager recently signed a two-year contract to become permanent after a period as a temporary solution.
Uncertain future for these four:
Manuel Ugarte
The Uruguayan was heavily criticized by fans for his performances towards the end of Ruben Amorim’s time as manager. Since Carrick took over in January, he has hardly played – only one start in the Premier League.
It hardly helped matters that one start ended in a 2-1 loss at home to bitter rivals Leeds – United’s only home defeat under Carrick.
United are reportedly on the hunt for two new midfielders, and it would not be surprising if Ugarte is sold this summer.
Mason Mount
It speaks volumes about Mason Mount’s injury nightmare at United that he was hardly in the discussion when Thomas Tuchel selected his controversial England squad for the World Cup.
The 27-year-old has made 22 Premier League appearances this season – albeit his highest total since his move from Chelsea three years ago (£55m). He scored goals in victories over Wolves and Crystal Palace towards the end of 2025, but suffered another injury shortly after Carrick took over.
Since returning in March, he has only started one game. There is no doubt about his quality when he is fit – but will United keep him?
Lisandro Martinez
Martinez was a key player in Carrick’s first weeks but suffered a calf injury in February. When he finally returned, he was sent off in the 2-1 loss to Leeds for harassing Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
The Argentine has started all the games he has been available for under Carrick, but his contract expires in June 2027. Journalist Andy Mitten has suggested that Martinez’s position “is changing” when it comes to the contract situation – with no indication that United will offer him renewal.
Martinez is only 28 years old and has a lot to offer, as his performances in recent months have largely shown. But the injury history can worry the management enough that they look for alternatives.
Joshua Zirkzee
The Dutchman’s playing time under Carrick suggests that a summer transfer is likely. He is versatile – can play both as a striker and as an attacking midfielder – but his only start under Carrick came in the 0-0 draw against Sunderland. He did not impress enough to keep his place.
He has been linked with Roma, although he himself expressed a desire to stay at Old Trafford in January.
Altay Bayindir – and a warning about Dalot
It is traditional for clubs to play with their backup goalkeeper on the last day of the season when there is nothing at stake. Bayindir can benefit from it. The Turk started the season as the first goalkeeper after taking over from André Onana, but was benched when United signed Senne Lammens on transfer day. Lammens has established himself solidly, and Bayindir will almost certainly have to leave if he wants to play first-team football.
Diogo Dalot (may retire – but United will fight to keep him)
It was reported earlier this week that Real Madrid want to sign Diogo Dalot, with his former manager José Mourinho – who signed him for United – eager for a reunion.
However, Carrick is keen for management to block any bids for the full-back, who has been one of his key players. Dalot has been a regular starter all season and is one of those who has benefited the most from the change of manager.
The 27-year-old would likely be second choice behind Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid, but opportunities could also open up for him at left-back. Still, United can’t say no if Dalot himself decides he wants to change clubs this summer.
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