De Jong's Injury Doesn't Change Barcelona's Plans for Casado

Barcelona continues to hold firm on its decision to part ways with Marc Casado during the summer transfer window, despite the injury sustained by Frenkie de Jong to his right knee during the 2026 World Cup, which could sideline him for around four months.

Casado has joined the team's training in preparation for the new season under Hans Flick, but he is still among the players rumored to leave. Mundo Deportivo reported that the club has not changed its stance since the end of last season.

Despite the expected absence of Frenkie de Jong, Xavi believes that Barcelona has a sufficient number of players to compensate for him, including Pedri, Gavi, Marc Bernal, Eric Garcia, and Andreas Christensen, along with Dani Olmo and Fermín López.

The newspaper added that Tommy Marquez, the club's 19-year-old academy player, is the first choice for promotion to the first team if Casado's departure is finalized this summer.

Chavi Espert remains a viable option after his standout performances with the Spain U19 team, which won the European Championship, providing the coaching staff with additional choices in midfield.

For this reason, Barcelona does not see De Jong's injury as necessitating the retention of Casado, while the club continues to search for an offer that meets their financial demands, having previously rejected an offer worth less than €30 million.