Within Barça's offices, there is consensus that the future of the midfield lies with Marc Bernal. At 18 years old, this pivot has become one of La Masia's greatest prospects and the chosen one to inherit the role that Busquets played for so many years. His way of reading the game, his positioning, and his composure on the ball inevitably recall Barça's legendary captain.
Despite his young age, he has shown maturity on the field and a surprising ability to take on responsibilities. Since the youth categories, he has stood out for his quiet leadership and surgical precision in building from the back, two essential qualities for success.
An untimely injury and a promising return
His rise seemed unstoppable last year when Flick, newly arrived on the bench, gave him a starting spot in several matches. The German coach was impressed by his performance, and everything pointed to Bernal quickly establishing himself in the first team. However, an injury at the beginning of the season cut short that projection and kept him away from the field.
If Bernal has shown anything, it's resilience. This summer, he has come back stronger than ever and has been one of the most outstanding players in the preseason. His physical level is optimal, and his performance has convinced Flick once again, who sees him as a real option.
Marc Casado, victim of the excess of talent in the midfield
The problem, as so often at Can Barça, is the excess of talent. Currently, the team has seven players to fill three spots in the center of the field. De Jong, Pedri, Gavi, Fermín, Olmo, Bernal, and Marc Casado.
Faced with this saturation, the club is beginning to consider departures, and one of the names that has gained prominence in this regard is Casado. The sporting management believes that Bernal has a higher ceiling and a more natural fit as a pure holding midfielder. That's why, if space needs to be made, Casado appears as the most transferable piece, especially now that Atlético de Madrid seems interested.
A strategic departure, but not a priority
Even so, Barça doesn't intend to give Marc Casado away. They don't see his sale as an immediate necessity, but rather as a realistic option if an offer arrives. In a market where every decision matters, the club seeks to balance the squad without weakening the project.
What is clear is that, if a choice must be made, Casado is behind Bernal or Gavi in the list of priorities. The internal hierarchy is clear: Barça sees Bernal as its next Busquets and doesn't want to slow his progress. That's why, in a summer where there will be tough decisions, the future of the midfield is beginning to take shape with names and departures that reflect the commitment to young and exceptional talent.