Barça Has Received a Major Blow Ahead of the Decisive Final Stretch of the Season with Marc Casadó's Injury. The youth player, who had been competing with De Jong in the midfield rotation, suffers a partial tear of the lateral collateral ligament in his knee. The diagnosis says he will be out of action for at least two months, which means he will miss practically the rest of the season.
This absence is a significant setback for Hansi Flick, who considered Casadó a very important resource. His absence reduces the German coach's options in a key area of the field, especially considering that the upcoming commitments will be demanding. Flick loses a player for the present and future, just when he most needed depth in the squad.
Frenkie de Jong, Without Replacements
In light of Casadó's injury, Hansi Flick is left with only one natural option in the defensive midfield position. Frenkie de Jong Is Going Through a Brilliant Moment, leading the play from the base, with an outstanding ability to distribute, recover, and break lines. However, De Jong's great level doesn't exempt the need to give him rest at some point.
With Two Months of Competition Ahead and Key Matches in the League, Cup, and Europe, Relying Exclusively on De Jong Is a Risk that Flick doesn't want to take. Although the Dutchman has shown to be at a great level, the load of minutes could take a toll. Casadó's Absence Leaves a Void that forces the coaching staff to urgently seek alternatives within the squad.
Xavi's Option Could Return to the Scene
In this scenario, one of the options that is back on the table is Andreas Christensen. The Danish center-back has already played the role of defensive pivot under Xavi Hernández. According to the 'Madrid-Barcelona' portal, Hansi Flick Would Be Considering Again the Possibility of Using Him in That Position to Give Frenkie de Jong Rest when necessary.
Christensen offers interesting qualities to perform that role: good ball distribution, defensive solidity, and tactical awareness. While his natural position is center-back, his adaptability could be a useful resource for the German coach. The previous experience in that area gives him credit, and his presence could help maintain balance without having to risk De Jong in every match.
Flick Doesn't See It Clearly and Gavi Could Be Tried There
However, Flick Isn't in Favor of Resorting to Christensen as a Pivot unless it's strictly necessary. Therefore, he is considering another more offensive option but with possibilities: moving Gavi back to occupy that position in certain matches.
The young midfielder, who usually plays in more advanced areas, has the energy, intensity, and quality to take on defensive responsibilities if the context requires it. Flick values his competitive character and versatility, and he doesn't rule out using him as an occasional defensive midfielder to manage De Jong's minutes. Casadó's Injury Forces Barça to Reinvent Themselves in the Midfield to Face a Season Finale in Which They Are Competing for Everything.