Hansi Flick has tremendous faith in Barcelona academy duo, plans laid out for them

Barcelona’s decision to prioritise the forward line over the gaping hole in the defensive midfield stunned fans and pundits across the globe.

The Catalan club’s administration, in fact, has come under criticism for haphazard planning and blatant ignorance of the void in midfield.

Hansi Flick’s comments last night, however, paint a different picture. With the manager openly admitting that the club would not require any new additions in midfield, it is clear that he has taken notice of a spark in the squad.

The two Marcs

Marc Casado and Marc Bernal both impressed thoroughly through the team’s tour in the United States earlier this week and it is clear that Flick maintains faith in both youngsters.

Indeed, as reported in a recent update by Mundo Deportivo, the Barcelona manager places tremendous faith in the La Masia midfield duo after their breakthrough performances in pre-season.

The surge in their stocks, thus, is the reason behind Flick’s confidence as he sees both players to be able candidates to fill into the double pivot.

However, the Blaugrana have different plans for both players given their age and difference in experience.

In Casado’s case, the club sees the player as having the required skill and experience to replace the former captain Sergi Roberto. He exceeded expectations in pre-season and could well be a regular option for the manager this season.

Bernal, still just 17 years old, will see more caution exercised over his participation.

He will indeed have minutes with the first team after his great performances but will be paired alongside more experienced names like Frenkie de Jong, Ilkay Gundogan or Andreas Christensen when deployed in the double pivot.

As it stands, the option of pairing Casado and Bernal together is unlikely given their lack of experience at the highest level, even though they impressed together when thrown into the deep end during the friendly against Real Madrid.

The situation could well change if their growth during the season is up to the mark.