Barcelona coach Hansi Flick made a controversial decision during the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético Madrid, after the team conceded three goals in just half an hour.
A surprising substitution and another victim
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Flick made his substitution in the 35th minute, bringing on Robert Lewandowski for Marc Casado. This angered Casado and put him under considerable pressure regarding his future at the club.
According to Sport, Casado seems to have become a recurring victim of Flick’s policy, who only gives him playing time in Barcelona’s home matches and when the circumstances are relatively favorable.
A recurring pattern of substitutions
This season has seen similar situations, with Casado being substituted at half-time against Levante and Real Oviedo away from Camp Nou, despite the team subsequently turning the tide and securing victories thanks to the introduction of players like Xavi and Frenkie de Jong.
An uncertain future at Barcelona
Casado is no longer a regular starter, appearing only in easier matches or Copa del Rey fixtures. His inclusion against Atlético was therefore a surprise, but it ended with a yellow card and widespread criticism.
Reports indicate that the club may consider selling Marc Casado next summer, after his future has been uncertain since last season, before Flick kept him in the squad due to the fitness issues of both Marc Bernal and Xavi.
Barcelona now faces a dual challenge: maintaining squad stability amidst fan criticism and reassessing the management of young players under the pressure of domestic and European competitions.
