Barcelona ready to bet on 20-year-old La Masia gem instead of veteran midfielder

Mundo Deportivo reports that FC Barcelona have decided to place their trust in young player Marc Casado instead of renewing the contract of Sergi Roberto.

Barcelona’s choice to favour Casado over Roberto is based on a few key reasons. Firstly, Casado is 12 years younger than Roberto, giving him more potential years of service to the club.

Secondly, Casado is known for his versatility, meaning he can play in multiple positions on the field, which is a valuable asset for the team.

It’s important to note that Roberto’s contract with Barcelona expired yesterday. This means he is no longer officially tied to the team.

Interestingly, this situation is reminiscent of Lionel Messi’s departure from the club in 2021. Although Barcelona have extended a renewal offer, whether he stays or goes will depend largely on the club’s financial health and their ability to comply with Fair Play regulations.

At this moment, Roberto is without a team and if Barcelona cannot meet the necessary financial criteria, they will not be able to retain the veteran player.

Barcelona are focused on the positives

Despite the emotional weight of this situation, Barcelona are focusing on the positives, and one significant positive is Casado. The young midfielder has recently renewed his contract with the club until 2028. 

Under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, Casado is expected to become a key player for the first team, as his ability to play both in midfield and as a right-back is a considerable advantage for Barcelona.

Additionally, Casado possesses other qualities that the club values highly. As the captain of the youth team, he has demonstrated natural leadership skills.

Furthermore, growing up through Barcelona’s famed academy, La Masia, he understands the club’s culture and values. These attributes are crucial for a club like Barcelona, which places a strong emphasis on team ethics and unity.

Casado’s seamless transition through the ranks and his ability to excel in various challenges make him a promising asset for the future.

The club believes that his leadership qualities, versatility, and deep understanding of Barcelona’s philosophy put him ahead of Roberto, despite the latter’s experience and contributions over the years.