After a hard-fought victory against an impressive Rayo Vallecano side, FC Barcelona have once again climbed to the top of the La Liga table. Though they are level on points with arch-rivals Real Madrid, their superior head-to-head record currently keeps the Blaugranas ahead.
However, beyond the triumph, a curious situation has emerged surrounding one of Barcelona’s most promising young players: Marc Casadó.
Despite an excellent first half of the season, Casadó has found himself dropped from the starting eleven in recent matches, including last night’s game. His absence has raised questions, particularly after Hansi Flick’s recent comments on the player.
Casadó’s Role Under Flick
Just a few months ago, Marc Casadó was winning plaudits for his performances, with many seeing him as an essential part of Barcelona’s midfield. Yet, recently, he has been relegated to a substitute role.
The latest match against Rayo Vallecano marked his third appearance off the bench in the last five games, a stretch that also saw him start once and miss out entirely in one match—a significant shift for a player who was once an undisputed starter.
When asked about the reasons behind Casadó’s absence from the lineup, Hansi Flick offered a careful response:
“He has done nothing wrong. I also talk to him. For the moment, things are like this. Frenkie played very well, he has a very good level. He is going through a good time. Things are like this.”
Flick’s words seem to deflect criticism, yet if we read between the lines, they could point to the reasons behind Casadó’s diminished role.
The German coach appears to be leaning heavily on Frenkie de Jong, whose form has been undeniable. Still, his praise of De Jong raises a key question: Is Casadó paying the price for a single mistake?
A Mistake Against Atlético de Madrid: The Turning Point?
While it’s speculative to say for certain, Casadó’s absence from the starting lineup coincides with a crucial mistake he made against Atlético de Madrid in December.
In that La Liga match, the 21-year-old midfielder misjudged a clearance, inadvertently leading to a goal by Rodrigo De Paul. Since that incident, As noted by Marca, Casadó’s minutes have been significantly limited:
- Did not feature in the Copa del Rey match against UD Barbastro
- Played 83 minutes against Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final
- Completed 90 minutes in the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid
- Did not feature in the Copa del Rey match against Real Betis
- Substituted at halftime against Getafe
- Played 62 minutes against Benfica
- Completed 90 minutes in the La Liga match against Valencia
- Featured for 10 minutes against Atalanta
- Played 45 minutes in the La Liga match against Alavés
- Logged only 26 minutes in the 5-0 Copa del Rey win over Valencia
- Did not feature in the La Liga match against Sevilla
- Played just 2 minutes in the La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano.
Since the game against Atlético de Madrid, Barcelona has played 12 games, and Casadó has completed the full 90 minutes only twice—a stark contrast to his earlier role as a guaranteed starter.
Hope for a Return: Can Casadó Regain His Spot in Barcelona midfield?
Despite the setbacks, all is not lost for Marc Casadó. With the La Liga title race growing increasingly competitive, squad depth will be crucial for the success of FC Barcelona. Casadó’s quality remains undeniable, and he could play a key role as the season progresses.
Whether or not Hansi Flick will continue to rely on Frenkie de Jong for every match is uncertain. Given the packed fixture list, there is certainly an opportunity for the coach to rotate his midfield options and give Casadó a chance to prove himself once again.
The question remains: Will Flick rest De Jong and allow Casadó to regain his spot, or will the young Barcelona midfielder remain on the sidelines as the season enters its most critical phase?
Only time will tell.
