Events at Barcelona have taken an unexpected turn, particularly regarding Marc Casado, one of La Masia’s brightest prospects and once seen as Sergio Busquets’ natural heir in midfield.
The 21-year-old impressed last season when injuries to senior players opened the door for him, showing maturity, composure, and discipline in his performances. His progress was rewarded with a first call-up to the Spanish national team, fuelling optimism that he would soon become a fixture in Barça’s midfield.
Initially backed by new coach Hansi Flick, Casado’s trajectory has since shifted dramatically. His involvement in pre-season was limited, and when La Liga began, he did not even make the bench—an unmistakable signal of his diminished role. Sources suggest Flick has already told him that his opportunities this season will be scarce unless circumstances change significantly.
Casado, who had previously insisted on staying to fight for his place, is now being forced to reconsider his future. West Ham United, Bayer Leverkusen, and Atlético Madrid are among the clubs monitoring his situation closely, prepared to offer him regular first-team football. With the January transfer window looming, a move away from Barcelona looks increasingly likely if his exile from the matchday squad continues.
Once tipped as a future leader of the Catalan midfield, Casado now faces the toughest crossroads of his young career: battle to reclaim his spot under Flick or seek a new stage to continue his rise. For a player once destined to carry Barcelona’s identity, the clock is already ticking.
