Barcelona faces the new season with one of the most competitive midfields in Europe. Hansi Flick has managed to balance young talent and experience in his squad, opting for a rotation that allows him to maintain the level next season. The recovery of Marc Bernal, one of La Masia's greatest prospects, has completed a midfield with multiple options.
In midfield, the blaugrana have players for every role. Pedri and Gavi provide control and creativity, while Dani Olmo and Fermín offer runs from the second line. At the base, Frenkie de Jong starts as the first choice, but Casadó and Bernal himself are pushing hard to get minutes.
This scenario has led to Flick already making important decisions about the future of those who will not be part of the rotation.
He has no place at Barça
Among those affected by this competition is Oriol Romeu.The midfielder returned after his loan to Girona, but has found a very complicated situation. Flick has made it clear to him that he is not in his plans, as the positions are filled and Bernal's recovery has reduced any possibility of space for him.
His last season was inconsistent: at Girona he started as a first choice, but ended up losing prominence as the months went by. Now, at Barça, the demands are even higher and the competition is practically insurmountable. With De Jong, Casadó, and Bernal ahead of him, the German coach believes he has no place in the project.
No offers and few options
The main problem for the club is that, so far, no formal offer has arrived for Oriol Romeu. His salary and age deter potential offers, who would only consider signing him if he becomes a free agent. This situation forces Barça to consider terminating his contract as the only way to unlock his departure.
In Camp Nou offices, it's already clear: they will not block his exit. If no buyer appears in the coming days, Romeu will receive a letter of freedom so he can look for a new destination. His time as a culé is coming to an end, while Marc Bernal is consolidating himself as the present and future choice for the pivot position.