Marc Casadó isn't going through his best moment as a Barça footballer. The Catalan midfielder started the season earning a starting position in several matches thanks to his tactical discipline and defensive solidity. He seemed to have settled into the first team as a reliable alternative for the pivot.
However, as the matches went by, his prominence faded. The great level that Frenkie de Jong showed again made Flick opt for the Dutchman. The Dutchman regained his best form and took control of the midfield, pushing Casadó to the background.
His injury has further complicated his progression
To make matters worse, bad luck struck him a month ago when he suffered an injury that sidelined him for the rest of the season. Just when he could have regained minutes, his body said enough.
What awaits him won't be easy. For the next season, he will not only continue competing with De Jong, but he will also have to contend with the return of Marc Bernal. The promising pivot from La Masia, who has been out all season due to a serious knee injury, will be available again.
Thomas Partey hovers over Barça's current affairs
Casadó's situation became even more complicated in recent weeks when rumors about a possible signing emerged. According to several media outlets, Barça would be considering bringing in Thomas Partey, Arsenal's midfielder whose contract ends this summer.
The experience, physique, and versatility of the Ghanaian international appeal to Deco, who seeks muscle and reliability in the midfield. Thomas's arrival would represent another obstacle for Casadó, who already faces fierce internal competition and is also coming back from an injury.
Marc Casadó "celebrates" Thomas's decision
But not everything is lost for the youth player. According to several English media outlets in recent hours, Thomas Partey would be close to renewing his contract with Arsenal. Mikel Arteta wants him to remain part of the Gunner project, and the player would be willing to accept the proposal.
If this renewal is confirmed, it would be good news for Marc Casadó. Barça would set aside that option in the market, and the midfielder could face the next preseason with more chances to convince Flick.