Transfers
Injury twist forces Barcelona to rethink Marc Casado’s future
Midfielder Marc Casado has publicly reaffirmed his wish to remain at FC Barcelona despite swirling rumours of a summer exit, a stance that gains new relevance after Frenkie de Jong’s knee injury could sideline the Dutchman for around four months. The potential absence of one of Hansi Flick’s key midfielders forces the club to reconsider its midfield options.
Hansi Flick, who took charge of Barcelona’s midfield, may now have to rethink his plans after the injury news. The Dutchman’s unavailability opens the door for Casado to stay, altering the summer departure narrative that previously seemed likely.
Initial assessments suggest the knee problem could keep De Jong out for roughly four months, leaving Barcelona without one of Flick’s most important midfielders during the opening stretch of the campaign. The club will have to cope without his creativity and defensive cover in the early fixtures.
Before De Jong’s setback, Casado appeared destined to leave the club, with his future looking increasingly uncertain. The injury, however, has injected fresh doubt into any potential exit.
Casado is a product of La Masia and has never hidden his desire to stay at Barcelona, repeatedly stating his intention to remain until specifically asked to leave. A photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images captured the midfielder during a recent training session.
Flick’s campaign rattles as De Jong arrives injured in Catalonia
Speaking to Tot Costa on Catalunya Radio, the midfielder said further discussions with the coach, the sporting directors and his agent are still to come. “There are still things we need to discuss with the coach, the sporting directors and my agent. We’ll do that over the coming weeks and then decide,” he said. He added, “Nobody can doubt that I want to stay here. If someone tells me they don’t want me, then we’ll have to find the best solution for everyone.” As a Barça fan, he emphasized, “If they think I should stay, I’ll stay. If they believe it’s better for the club that I leave so the team can continue growing, then I’ll go.” Only a few days ago, after discussions with Flick, Casado understood his opportunities would be limited behind De Jong, Pedri, Gavi and Marc Bernal in the midfield hierarchy. The depth chart places him fourth, reducing his playing time prospects. His agent, Jorge Mendes, began exploring options elsewhere, with interest arriving from England, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Barcelona were hoping to receive around €30 million for the academy graduate, whose contract runs until 2028. Now, with De Jong potentially unavailable for several months, Flick may decide to keep Casado as part of the squad to maintain depth in midfield, and the club’s transfer‑window plans will depend on the severity of the Dutchman’s injury.