Barcelona Sees Israeli Midfielder Oriyan Goren as Future First-Team Player Amid De Jong Injury

Barcelona is increasingly considering promoting Israeli youth midfielder Oriyan Goren to the senior team following a significant knee injury to star player Frenkie de Jong, who recently returned from the World Cup. Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo reported that the club is deeply concerned about De Jong's injury, which could sideline him for several months. This situation forces head coach Hansi Flick to find a temporary replacement either through the transfer market or by promoting from within the youth ranks.

Flick has emphasized his preference to explore internal options before spending on new signings. Given this, the departure of midfielder Casado might be postponed to fill the gap left by De Jong. Oriyan Goren, a standout talent from Barcelona's La Masia academy, is among the candidates for this role. Catalan media highlight that Barcelona's management believes Goren has enough potential to eventually join the first team and compare his playing style to that of Pedri, another highly regarded midfielder.

Other potential candidates mentioned include 19-year-old Tommy Marquez, who has already made two senior appearances last season, and Xavi Esparat, whose natural position is defender. Oriyan Goren continues to train with the senior squad, signaling the club's confidence in his development and readiness to step up if needed. No official responses from the club have been released yet regarding these developments.