At Camp Nou, a prominent midfielder appears to be lost within the Barcelona squad. His future is uncertain, with clear indications from the coaching staff that his playing time this season may be very limited.
Marc Casado, a product of the club’s academy, was a key player last season, but his role has noticeably diminished under Hansi Flick. Even in the recent Copa del Rey match against Guadalajara, he was forced to play at right-back, a clear signal that he is no longer considered for a pivotal role in midfield.
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The situation has changed drastically compared to last season. Casado is aware that three players are ahead of him in the pecking order, whom Flick prioritizes: Eric Garcia, Frenkie de Jong, and Marc Bernal.
This hierarchy leaves him little room to maneuver and greatly reduces his chances of playing time, forcing him to reconsider his options. The coaching staff assumes the academy graduate will not get regular minutes, and Flick does not see him as ready to take on a central role in high-stakes matches, believing his development has stalled. The result is clear: Casado has begun exploring alternatives to regain his importance on the field.
In this context, he has started looking abroad for opportunities that could restore his status and provide consistent playing time. The English Premier League has emerged as an attractive destination, with Aston Villa showing clear interest, valuing his skills, tactical discipline, and potential to thrive outside the pressures of Camp Nou.
What was once just an idea has now become a potential career path: leaving to play regularly, develop in a new environment, and reclaim his role as an influential player, rather than spending another season in Barcelona’s shadows.
