Hansi Flick Ousts Barcelona’s Talented Star from the Starting Lineup – From Untouchable to Benchwarmer

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is reportedly making a bold decision that could reshape the club’s midfield dynamics. According to sources from El Nacional, Flick has decided to drop one of the team’s emerging stars from the starting lineup, signaling a major shift in his tactical approach.

As Barcelona prepares for a crucial clash against Sevilla at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium in La Liga’s 23rd round, all eyes are on the team’s midfield setup. Flick has been experimenting with his lineup in recent weeks, but his latest decision could have long-term consequences.

One of Barcelona’s standout discoveries this season has been Marc Casadó, a promising talent who was steadily making a name for himself in the first team. However, the return of Frenkie de Jong to peak form has completely altered the midfield hierarchy.

De Jong, who had been struggling with injuries, has reclaimed his starting spot and established himself as Flick’s first choice in the defensive midfield role. His ability to control the game, dictate play, and drive forward with precision has convinced the German coach that he is the ideal anchor for Barcelona’s midfield.

This resurgence has come at a cost for Casadó, who has seen his minutes drastically reduced. Once viewed as a potential midfield mainstay, the young Spaniard now finds himself on the fringes of the starting XI. Despite getting occasional opportunities, he is no longer a guaranteed starter under Flick.

In the past few months, Casadó had been gradually securing his place in the lineup, impressing with his composure and tactical intelligence. However, with De Jong’s return, Flick has shifted his focus to experience and reliability in midfield, preferring a player with proven leadership and big-match experience.

Recent matches have made Flick’s preference clear. De Jong has been the go-to option in high-stakes encounters, while Casadó has been relegated to substitute appearances. This marks a significant downgrade for a player who was once seen as a rising star in Barcelona’s rebuild.

Despite his diminished role, Barcelona’s management still holds Casadó in high regard. Sporting director Deco and the club hierarchy believe in his long-term potential and are not considering a permanent departure at this stage. His contract remains intact, and the club views him as a crucial asset for the future.

However, if his situation does not improve in the coming months, there could be discussions about a temporary move. A loan spell at another La Liga club could provide him with the regular playing time needed to continue his development without stagnating on the bench.

Flick’s vision for Barcelona is clear—he wants midfielders who can seamlessly control transitions, maintain possession under pressure, and provide defensive stability. While Casadó has shown promise, Flick believes he is not yet at the level required to command a regular starting spot.

This decision has sparked mixed reactions within the Barcelona fanbase. Some believe that Flick is prioritizing immediate results over the club’s long-term development, while others argue that De Jong’s presence in the starting lineup is essential for the team’s title ambitions.

Casadó now faces a critical challenge—he must seize every opportunity he gets to prove his worth. Whether in cup competitions, substitute appearances, or training sessions, he needs to demonstrate that he can match De Jong’s level and force Flick to reconsider his decision.

The coming weeks will be decisive. If Casadó manages to impress, Flick might be compelled to reintegrate him into his plans. Otherwise, the club may look at alternative options to ensure his growth without compromising the team’s immediate objectives.

For now, it’s clear that Flick is making tough choices to shape Barcelona’s future. Whether Casadó finds his way back into the starting lineup or takes a different path remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his journey at the club has taken an unexpected turn.