League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: Italy Category: Scores & Results

Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado excluded from Italy trip amid Saudi interest

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 9:05 AM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado excluded from Italy trip amid Saudi interest

Summary

Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado will not join his teammates for a friendly in Italy. The 22-year-old was left out as Barcelona accelerates efforts to offload players before the transfer window closes. Casado, who initially hesitated about a move to Saudi Arabia, is now considering options with clubs like Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli reportedly interested. Barcelona aims for a transfer fee around €40 million, hoping competition between the Saudi clubs will drive up the price. Hansi Flick has made it clear to Casado that opportunities in the squad will be limited.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Casado omitted from the squad for a friendly against Udinese and Nottingham Forest
•Barcelona's transfer strategy is focused on offloading non-essential players
•Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli show interest in signing Casado
•Barcelona hopes to secure around €40 million for Casado's transfer
•Competition for midfield places at Barcelona is expected to increase

Latest Updates

9:05 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona midfielder will not travel to Italy for friendly as Saudi Arabia move nears

What they're saying

"
Barcelona’s summer clear-out has gathered pace. With Deco leading the club’s transfer strategy, the Blaugrana are accelerating efforts to find new destinations for players who are no longer consid...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Liverpool Barcelona EPL Soccer