Frank Christian
In a thrilling UEFA Nations League match, Spain triumphed over Switzerland 3-2, showcasing the impressive abilities of 21-year-old Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado, who was making only his second appearance for the senior team.
Casado’s performance on the field belied his inexperience, as he played with the confidence of a seasoned veteran.
The Spanish team had to reclaim the lead three times against a resilient Swiss opposition, ultimately sealing their win with a penalty from Bryan Zaragoza in stoppage time.
Casado’s contribution in the midfield earned him accolades from teammates and observers alike.
Zaragoza, who scored the decisive penalty, lauded Casado as the standout player of the match, stating that he is an “animal” and praising his remarkable skills.
“I’ve got no words for how he performed. It’s just outrageous,” Zaragoza expressed, marveling at Casado’s tenacity.
Yeremi Pino from Villarreal also praised Casado’s exceptional display, highlighting his prowess for both club and country.
“He delivered an outstanding performance, proving his talent both at Barça and now with the national team,” he remarked, calling Casado “a machine”.
Spain’s national coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his admiration for Casado’s composure and understanding of the game, noting how he appeared like a seasoned player despite his limited experience.
“He impressed everyone with his maturity on the field; it’s hard to believe he’s played so little at this level,” de la Fuente commented, labeling him a “surprise package”.
Could Marc Casado be the successor to Sergio Busquets?
As comparisons between Casado and the iconic Sergio Busquets arise, the former Barcelona star himself has praised Casado’s abilities, noting how his training has showcased the young midfielder’s potential.
Busquets expressed, “We always knew he was talented based on our training sessions, but what he’s demonstrating now is extraordinary—a spectacular level.”
His 90-minute performance in the recent victory in Tenerife suggests that Barcelona may have found not just a worthy successor to Busquets, but also a young defensive midfielder that fits perfectly into coach Hansi Flick’s rigorous and effective approach.
