Flick could rely on Barcelona midfielder in makeshift role until end of season | Barca Universal

"After resisting multiple offers from top European clubs last summer to stay at Barcelona last summer, Marc Casado has found himself in a curious situation. The youngster is certainly not a first-team regular for Barcelona anymore, having started in only six matches in the league so far this season. With Frenkie de Jong and Pedri still being crucial components to Hansi Flick's team setup, it is unlikely Casado will become a regular anytime soon, either, barring an unexpected injury."

"According to MARCA, Flick may rely on Casado to operate in the right-back position until the end of the season. That is largely due to a lack of an alternative to Jules Kounde, especially after the Barcelona manager moved Eric Garcia back into a central defensive role. Casado, therefore, may serve as the number one alternative for Kounde in the right-back position. This, in turn, could increase the midfielder's game time heading into the second half of the season."

"Casado recently played in the right-back position in the midweek Copa Del Rey game against CD Guadalajara, making a solid impression with his performance. Although performing well against a lower-tier club is not necessarily a solid indicator, it was proof that Casado can indeed operate as a right-back if needed. This is healthy for Barcelona overall, as the team continues to showcase its versatility under the leadership of Flick. This versatility could come in handy during the second half of the season."

Marc Casado resisted offers from top European clubs to remain at Barcelona last summer but is no longer a regular starter, with only six league starts this season. Frenkie de Jong and Pedri remain primary midfielders, making Casado's pathway to a regular midfield role unlikely without injuries. Hansi Flick plans to use Casado as a right-back alternative to Jules Kounde until season's end after Eric Garcia returned to central defense. Casado recently filled the right-back role in a Copa del Rey match against CD Guadalajara and impressed, suggesting adaptability. The positional flexibility increases Casado's chances of more minutes and benefits Barcelona's squad depth amid potential injury issues.

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