Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has reassured fans that midfielder Marc Casado remains an integral part of the team’s plans, despite recent competition from Frenkie de Jong and transfer rumors.
Casado, a product of La Masia, has impressed this season with 30 appearances, taking advantage of early opportunities due to injuries.
However, with Gavi and De Jong returning from injuries, Casado faces increased competition for his spot in the starting lineup.
De Jong’s recent form has seen him start most of Barcelona’s games, limiting Casado’s playing time to just a few minutes in the last matches.
Despite rumors linking Casado to Chelsea, Flick has expressed his satisfaction with the young midfielder and denies any intentional exclusion from the team.
“He has not done anything wrong. I am also speaking with him,” Flick explained.
“At the moment it is like this because Frenkie is doing really well, he is also producing a good level in ball possession and key moments. This is what we need and at the moment it’s like this. Frenkie starts, but Casa is also doing well.
“It’s not a case of: when one plays, it is something against the other. Everyone has their job. We are one team, and when everyone plays, they have to play well, it’s a normal thing.”
Casado recently signed a contract extension with Barcelona until 2028, including a €100m (£83m) release clause.
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