Barcelona’s very own Kimmich: La Masia sensation makes an impression vs Valencia

Barcelona kicked off the 2024/25 La Liga season with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Valencia at Mestalla, with Robert Lewandowski scoring a brace.

Apart from Lewandowski, the standout performance of the match came from Marc Casado, who proved that Barça’s faith in him was well-placed.

Casado’s performance vs Valencia

The 20-year-old midfielder, recently renewed until 2028, completed his first full 90 minutes for the first team, leaving an indelible mark on the pitch.

Casado’s statistics from the match highlight his immense contribution: he completed 52 out of 62 passes, boasting an 84% success rate, and made five long passes.

He also showcased his offensive capabilities with one shot on goal, one dribble, and came tantalizingly close to scoring with two clear chances.

Defensively, Casado was equally impressive, winning six duels and making four tackles. His versatility was on full display as he played multiple roles throughout the game—acting as a 6, an 8, and even a 10.

Can Marc Casado emerge as Barcelona’s long-term replacement for Busquets? (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

His ability to transition seamlessly between these positions demonstrated his quality and tactical understanding.

Casado’s physical prowess was a key factor in his standout performance. The demanding approach of the match saw him attacking from the second line and being the first to shut down Valencia’s counterattacks.

He had the freedom to drop back and cover defensive lines while also being an offensive threat.

An answer to Barcelona’s midfield problems?

With the midfield situation still uncertain, Casado’s performance serves as a beacon of hope. His box-to-box role was executed to perfection, proving he is more than capable of being a key player for the first team.

While comparisons to Kimmich are perhaps premature, his performance against Valencia set a high standard.

As Barça looks ahead, Casado’s exceptional display suggests they may not need to seek reinforcements in the transfer market.

His combination of skill, versatility, and physicality makes him a valuable asset. But it will be equally important that he continues to rapidly progress at Barcelona in the years to come.