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Barcelona's midfield gamble: Casado's exit and Jong's injury loom
Barcelona's midfield future hinges on the uncertain exit of Marc Casado and the injury to Frenkie de Jong, a situation underscored by a 20‑year‑old debut on February 7 at Spotify Camp Nou as the Catalans beat Mallorca 3‑0. The debut, which saw the youngster replace Fermin Lopez, highlighted the club’s hope for fresh blood in midfield as the new season approaches.
The 3‑0 victory over Mallorca at Spotify Camp Nou on February 7 marked the first‑team debut of the 20‑year‑old, who entered for Fermin Lopez, confirming the Catalans’ confidence in promoting youth under the bright lights of the stadium.
Barcelona’s midfield plans for the upcoming campaign are being shaped by two key developments: the uncertain future of Marc Casado and the injury concern surrounding Frenkie de Jong, both of whom have been central to the Blaugrana’s tactical setup.
Marc Casado has been heavily linked with a departure this summer after falling down the pecking order under Hansi Flick and struggling for regular minutes last season, sparking speculation about his next move.
The La Masia graduate continues to attract interest from abroad, particularly from Saudi Arabia, with the Blaugrana seeking offers of around €30 million; no club has yet met that asking price, leaving his exit in limbo.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Tommy Marques is the clear internal alternative should Casado leave, and club reports state that Flick has been impressed by Tommy throughout his training with the senior squad and trusts him to step up.
Tommy, who turns 20 later this year, enjoyed his first taste of senior football on February 7, replacing Fermin Lopez during the 3‑0 win at Spotify Camp Nou, and later made a second appearance as a late substitute for Marc Bernal against Alaves after the league title had already been secured, reflecting the Catalans’ confidence in his development. (Photo courtesy: X/FCBarcelona_es)
However, the potential long‑term absence of Frenkie de Jong may force Barcelona to reassess its midfield strategy, with Casado’s exit now depending, at least in part, on the final diagnosis of Jong’s knee injury and the duration of his absence.
If the Dutch midfielder is sidelined, the Blaugrana are prepared to promote from within rather than sign an external replacement, with other academy prospects such as Brian Farinas also expected to be evaluated during pre‑season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)