Barcelona manager Xavi took the podium before the upcoming showdown with Almeria, bracing himself for a barrage of inquiries concerning the club’s future trajectory.
Amidst the volley of questions, one inquiry singled out Marc Casado, and with a measured nod, the coach affirmed that Casado features prominently in his blueprints for the club’s future.
The manager mentioned “I have already said it many times” his reliance on Casado to be included in the initial Barcelona team.
“The idea with Marc Casado is that he continues with us and we want him to do the preseason with us,” said Xavi during the pre-match press conference as quoted by SPORT.
Casado – A mainstay of Barça Atletic
Casado, a stalwart presence in the first-team selections, predominantly plies his trade with Barça Atletic, where he stands as a linchpin in their bid for promotion.
Throughout the current campaign, the midfielder has displayed notable adaptability, not only assuming duties in the right-back slot but seamlessly transitioning into midfield and even as a defensive shield.
Xavi, in his discernment, praised this versatility, envisioning Casado as a pivotal asset with a distinct role within the first team.
A substantial portion of his prospects could well hinge upon the forthcoming American tour slated for this summer, set to cross the vibrant landscape of the East Coast.
This trajectory parallels the route that Fermin Lopez undertook last year, thereby amplifying the significance of this opportunity as a pivotal juncture in Casado’s career.
A renewal on the cards?
As reported before, Barcelona are currently in talks with Casado about signing a new contract that could keep him with the team until at least 2027, if not longer.
Casado, who also serves as captain for Barça Atletic, has been part of the senior team for some time now. Despite not getting much playing time under Xavi, Barcelona still believe in his abilities and are eager to keep him around.
His current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, but Barcelona have the option to extend it until 2025.
However, instead of simply extending the existing deal, Barcelona are looking to negotiate a completely new contract that would likely keep Casado with the team until 2027, with a possible extension for another year.
