Barcelona relief as 22-year-old player escapes adductor injury, could start vs Athletic | OneFootball

Hansi Flick initially named a starting XI against Celta Vigo along expected lines. Eric Garcia moved to right back to replace Jules Kounde, who was a doubt coming into the game, while Lewandowski replaced Ferran to lead the Barcelona forward line.

However, minutes before kick-off, Flick was forced to make another change, bringing in Dani Olmo for Marc Casado, who withdrew at the last minute after feeling some discomfort. Olmo had to play in an unfamiliar role and held his own as a deep-lying playmaking pivot.

According to SPORT, Casado’s withdrawal was due to discomfort in his adductor, which required medical tests to determine the extent of the problem. However, Mundo Deportivo later reported that initial fears of a muscle injury were quickly dispelled, with examinations conducted on Monday at the Ciutat Esportiva confirming that the midfielder had not sustained any significant damage.

As per the report from MD, Casado will undergo a short period of preventive treatment during the international break and is expected to be fully available for Barcelona’s clash with Athletic Club on November 22.

The timing of the news is crucial for Hansi Flick, with Frenkie de Jong suspended for the upcoming fixture and Pedri still sidelined through injury. Casadó’s clean medical report, therefore, comes as a significant boost, restoring much-needed depth and stability in midfield, particularly in the double pivot role.

Marc Bernal is another option for Flick, but the young midfielder has only just returned from a long-term knee injury and is still regaining full match rhythm. With few alternatives available, Casado’s return will be a timely boost as Barcelona look to restart their campaign strongly after the international break.