Barcelona’s Midfield Logjam Puts Marc Casado’s Future in Doubt
The 2025/26 campaign is shaping up to be anything but ordinary for Barcelona, particularly in midfield—where competition is intensifying to the point of becoming a serious headache for new head coach Hansi Flick. While Flick remains a strong supporter of the club’s youth project, striking the right balance between rising talents and seasoned stars is proving to be a growing challenge.
Currently, Barça’s midfield is overflowing with top-tier options. Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi, Fermín López, and Dani Olmo are all battling for regular starting spots. With Marc Bernal also nearing a return from a long-term injury, opportunities for others are rapidly diminishing.
Amid this packed midfield, Marc Casado’s situation is starting to raise questions. Once one of the breakout stars early last season, Casado gradually faded from prominence and ended the campaign as a bench option. While Flick still sees him as a dependable squad player, his long-term role is increasingly uncertain—particularly after the return of Rodri, whose presence further reduces Casado’s chances, including within the national team setup under Luis de la Fuente.
In contrast, Gavi—who was previously rumored to be on his way out—has clearly earned Flick’s trust. Their strong rapport, combined with Gavi’s standout performances (notably in the first pre-season friendly), have reaffirmed his importance in the coach’s plans.
With Casado now slipping down the pecking order, speculation is growing about a potential exit. Atlético Madrid has emerged as a serious suitor, with coach Diego Simeone reportedly unhappy with the current transfer window and eyeing Casado as a reinforcement.
Barcelona’s leadership is said to be open to a sale, provided the financial terms are favorable. With the midfield roster overflowing and the need to streamline the squad, Casado could be one of the casualties of the club’s restructuring process.
Could we be witnessing another surprise transfer twist this summer?
If Simeone makes his move, Marc Casado might be the next to bid farewell to Camp Nou.
