The midfield at FC Barcelona is experiencing a real logjam. There's plenty of talent, but not enough minutes for everyone. Hansi Flick, who has already started making key decisions, hasn't wanted to postpone the inevitable any longer.
The German coach has communicated his roadmap to the sporting management. He believes there are players with potential who won't have space. Rather than stall their careers, he prefers to open the door for them with time and clear options.
The club's financial situation also weighs heavily. The finances are still on a tightrope and it's urgent to bring in cash. They're looking for sales that won't weaken the backbone but will generate immediate income.
With that mix of factors, one player's profile stands out as obvious. He has the level, potential, market, and tough direct competition in his position.
The midfield doesn't let up: there's only room for a few
Flick has established starters. Pedri, Gavi, De Jong, and Dani Olmo seem untouchable in the German's plans. On top of that is the emergence of Fermín López and the return of other young talents.
The numbers don't add up. For the coaching staff, having eight or nine midfielders is an unnecessary overload. There's a risk of frustration, of stalling development, and of accumulating salary without minutes.
The affected player has been informed directly by Flick. The coach has told him that he values his profile, but doesn't see him as essential. He has assured him that it's not about level, but about context and priorities.
The response has been one of absolute sadness. He's a beloved academy graduate, respected and very emotionally connected to several first-team players.
A painful decision in sporting terms... but logical financially
The sporting management has received the message and is already working on an exit. The club is seeking a permanent transfer with flexible conditions. They don't want to close the door to a return in the future.
There's consensus that the best thing for his development is to get quality minutes away from Camp Nou. He wouldn't get them here. The competition is fierce and Flick wants short squads, without unnecessary accumulation.
Gavi has been one of the most emotionally affected by the news. They have kept a close relationship since their youth stages. For him, seeing one of his best friends leave has been an unexpected blow.
The locker room itself has received the decision with surprise. Many saw him as the future replacement for some of the current starters.
Several European giants have already inquired about his situation
The market hasn't taken long to react. As soon as it leaked that the player is available, several clubs picked up the phone. There are firm offers and attractive sporting projects on the table.
The Premier League appears as the top destination. Two historic teams from the English championship have shown great interest in acquiring his services. But there are also moves in La Liga.
Specifically, three clubs are leading the current bidding. One is Chelsea, another is Manchester United, and the third is Atlético de Madrid. All value his tactical awareness, his intensity, and his training in an environment like Barça.
The name leaving the club this week is Marc Casadó. A tough departure to digest... especially for someone like Gavi, who considered him part of his family.