FC Barcelona seems to have identified a potential replacement for Sergio Busquets as they approach the 2024/2025 season. After Busquets departed for Inter Miami following the club's last La Liga title win in 2023, Barcelona faced challenges in securing top midfield targets due to financial constraints. The club eventually settled for Oriol Romeu, who struggled with form and injuries before returning to Girona on loan.
During the preseason tour in the United States, young talents Marc Casado and Marc Bernal showcased their skills in the defensive midfield position. Their performances in matches against top clubs like Manchester City and Real Madrid caught the attention of the coaching staff.
Barcelona's head coach, Flick, hinted at his satisfaction with the current midfield options, emphasizing the potential return of injured players and the expected arrival of Dani Olmo in attacking roles. Reports suggest that Bernal, in particular, has been earmarked as a long-term solution in the defensive midfield position, with Flick expressing confidence in both Casado and Bernal.
Casado, being the senior player, is likely to see more playing time in the upcoming season, while the promising 17-year-old Bernal is expected to remain with the first team. It is speculated that Bernal may partner with experienced players like Christensen, de Jong, or Gundogan in Flick's tactical setup.
Comparisons have been drawn to the promotion of Busquets from the B team in 2008, suggesting that Barcelona may have unearthed another gem from their academy in Bernal. The coaching staff's faith in these young talents signals a potential shift in the team's midfield dynamics for the upcoming campaign.
