Official, Hansi Flick no longer trusts his golden boy, Barça-Atlético proves it

Camp Nou is hosting a high-voltage battle tonight between FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid. The matchday's advancement due to the Supercopa has placed this clash at a key moment in the season, and the tension is palpable from the very first possession. Only four points separate both teams, and every detail could tip the balance toward a clear title contender.

The importance of the clash has led Hansi Flick and Simeone to field their best elevens. The German wants to take advantage of the momentum from recent weeks, and the Argentine is looking to reaffirm the rojiblanco team's growth. In the first half, the pace has been very high, with many duels, and the match is being shaped by the maximum intensity that always characterizes these encounters.

Hansi Flick has had to make important changes

From a culé perspective, the surprise came hours before kickoff, when Frenkie de Jong's absence was confirmed. The Dutchman is dealing with a feverish episode that forced him to stay out at the last minute. This forced Hansi Flick to improvise and, surprisingly, the coach decided that Eric García would be the one to take his place in midfield.

However, the decision had a clear reading: Marc Casadóis no longer Hansi Flick's favorite youngster. The academy player was essential last season and enjoyed the German coach's full trust. However, his role has changed drastically this season, and today's match proves it beyond doubt.

Marc Casadó loses his spot, Eric García has won

Marc Casadó has lost influence in the team alarmingly. Even in a context as critical as tonight, Hansi Flick preferred to reposition Eric García rather than naturally turn to La Masia's holding midfielder. The hierarchy has changed, and Casadó no longer seems to have the guaranteed position he had months ago.

The move even forced Gerard Martín to start as a center-back. Flick has prioritized tactical order and clean build-up from the back over the classic balance Marc Casadó offers. This move confirms a trend that had already been noticed in Barça's recent matches: Eric García is ahead in the rotation.

Pending how the second half unfolds, the message has already been sent inside the culé locker room. The fight for minutes in midfield has intensified, and Hansi Flick doesn't hesitate to make bold decisions. What is clear is that Marc Casadó can no longer boast about being the coach's favorite, and the Barça-Atlético match proves it like never before.