Barcelona La Masia midfielder expected to make La Liga debut against Almeria following Pedri, de Jong absence

Following the draw to Valencia, Barcelona have plenty of expectations riding on their shoulders against Almeria as anything less than a win would jeopardize their hopes of retaining the La Liga title.

However, the absences in midfield will prove to be a major headache for coach Xavi Hernandez.

In addition to the suspension of Frenkie de Jong, Pedri Gonzalez will also be unavailable due to his most recent injury setback.

Owing to muscle discomfort, the 21-year-old may require three weeks to properly recuperate. Should that be the case, Pedri will miss the Catalans’ next four games.

Start for Casado on the cards

In light of the growing list of absentees, Mundo Deportivo have come out to report that Barcelona youngster Marc Casado may receive a place in the starting XI tomorrow.

Barça’s midfield depletions and especially the waning form of Oriol Romeu has provided Casado the perfect opportunity to feature in the XI.

“Casado and Fermín can be alternatives to cover the absence of Frenkie,” Xavi said about the youngster.

He is a crucial cog in Rafa Marquez’s team and is the captain of Barcelona B at the tender age of 20, possessing a skillset that belies his years.

While starting Casado may seem premature given his inexperience, the coaching staff recognizes it is worth taking a risk now with the midfield department already in the absence of Gavi, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong.

And although Barcelona are prepared to spend big on a high-profile pivot midfielder next summer, with the intention of filling the gargantuan void of Sergio Busquets, historically it has been the emergence of talented gems from La Masia that have taken possession of the defensive midfield position.

If Casado manages to alleviate the major exclusions in midfield, it is safe to say his future prospects with the first team will considerably rise.