Barcelona is currently managing two key players with contrasting situations. One fan favorite, frustrated by a slow return from injury, is eager to regain his form but has struggled with limited playing time. Meanwhile, a breakthrough talent who has emerged as a potential leader for the future is rapidly becoming a mainstay in the team. While the former works towards full recovery, the latter’s performances have already attracted interest from Europe’s elite clubs, though Barcelona is determined to keep him long-term.
Barcelona Fan Favorite Frustrated by Slow Return
According to Javier Miguel in AS, Barcelona midfielder Gavi is reportedly unhappy with his limited playing time, which has seldom surpassed 10 minutes per match since his injury return.
Despite being cleared to play nearly a month ago, Gavi has only played 48 minutes in six matches. This lack of time on the pitch is understandably frustrating for the young midfielder, who is keen to return to his top form.
Gavi’s high-intensity playing style, which depends on constant movement and pressing, has made it challenging for him to regain his previous form quickly.
Hansi Flick is taking a cautious approach to Gavi’s recovery, recognizing the importance of avoiding setbacks. Given the severity of the injury he suffered a year ago, it’s crucial to prevent any complications.
What is Flick’s Strategy for Managing Gavi?
Flick’s cautious approach to Gavi’s return aims to prevent any further setbacks. While Gavi’s medical clearance in October acknowledged his dedication to recovery, it didn’t mean he was fully fit yet, which has led to his limited playing time.
Looking ahead, Flick intends to slowly ramp up Gavi’s playing time over the next month, aiming for him to be fully fit and prepared for more significant minutes by January.
The Spanish Super Cup is the main goal for Gavi’s full comeback. In the meantime, he will continue to play in short stints, with his next appearances expected to be against teams like Celta Vigo, Brest, Las Palmas, and Mallorca.
If things progress as planned, Gavi could soon be in line for a starting role, with upcoming matches against teams like Betis, Borussia Dortmund, Leganes, or Atletico Madrid possibly marking his return to the starting XI.
His recovery is centered on making sure he is fully ready for the important months to come.
Barcelona Sees Breakthrough Talent as Future Leader
Six months ago, Marc Casado was far from a spot in Barcelona’s first team. Now, he has become a key player for the Blaugrana and is unquestionably Hansi Flick’s first-choice midfielder.
The young talent has stepped up to fill a significant gap that Barcelona has struggled with for years. Defensively solid and consistently contributing with key attacking runs and passes, he is a relentless force in the midfield.
Barcelona Have No Intention of Letting Him Leave
As reported by Fichajes, Barcelona are determined to keep Casado and have no plans to let him go anytime soon, aiming to secure his future at the club.
They believe he has the potential to become a key figure in the team’s long-term plans and a leader in midfield, similar to Sergio Busquets in the past.
Casado’s performances have caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs, with rumors of interest already circulating. However, Barcelona plans to protect him and may even offer an improved contract to discourage any suitors.
The 21-year-old renewed his contract with Barcelona in June, just before his rise to prominence, and is tied to the club until 2028. It wouldn’t be surprising if Barcelona sought to renegotiate his terms to increase his release clause.
This season, Casado has featured in 11 La Liga matches, registering three assists and averaging seven defensive actions per game.
He also made his debut for the Spanish national team and seems destined for a bright future with both club and country.
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