Casado's inclusion in an unfamiliar role was a calculated experiment by Hansi Flick. And by the final whistle, the numbers backed up the decision. Against Guadalajara, Casado recorded five recoveries, won four duels and completed 69 of his 71 passes. Beyond the raw data, he spent significant time in the opposition half, showing confidence on the ball and a clear attacking intent from a defensive position.
When you play in several competitions, it's important to have several players in the same position. I'm very happy I have that. This improves all the players. We have a lot of competition. The competition between Ferran and Lewy is good for them and for the team. Lewy or Ferran are both in perfect form. We'll see who starts.
Dani is a footballer who can play in several positions. With me he has played as a right winger, a left winger, a midfielder and a centre forward. I have no doubt, he is a footballer who seems to be made for the Spanish national team. He is that type of player who, even when things are bad with his club, plays at a very high level with the Spanish national team,
Sometimes you have to sacrifice having great statistics to lead your team to victory. That's what 5-foot-8 running back Journee Tonga has done for Leuzinger this season. A year ago, he rushed for 2,267 yards and 29 touchdowns. This season, to help Leuzinger win the Bay League championship, go 9-1 and earn a Division 2 playoff matchup against unbeaten Crean Lutheran on Friday, Tonga has been doing everything, from playing quarterback to slot.