At a glance
- Marc Bernal picked up an ankle sprain against Atletico Madrid on April 4.
- As opposed to being out for the cited 10 to 15 days, the midfielder missed 28 in total.
- His 10 minutes at the end of the 2-1 win over Osasuna were a boost for Hansi Flick and the player.
Marc Bernal‘s latest return to action for FC Barcelona was a prime example of how a comeback for a leading squad player shouldn’t be rushed.
After enjoying a breakout 2025/2026 campaign with elite defensive midfield performances and five goals in all competitions, Bernal had his progress derailed by an ankle sprain.
This meant he had to leave Barca’s 2-1 league win over Atletico Madrid on April 4 around the hour mark. And as a consequence, he then missed the Champions League quarterfinal defeat to the same opposition.
The club put his recovery timeframe at 10 to 15 days. In total, however, the 18-year-old missed 28 before replacing Pedri in El Sadar.
Marc Bernal took to Barcelona Vs. Osasuna like a duck to water
Despite such a short cameo in the 2-1 win, Bernal was still key. He completed four passes – three of which were in the opponent’s half – while making two clearances and winning an aerial duel. There were six interventions too, and Bernal stated his case to possibly start Sunday’s league-deciding Clasico against Real Madrid.
After 10 consecutive starts, Bernal is back at square one. Yet his case shows how expertly a return can be planned. There’s no need to risk relapses, by throwing players back into the deep end.
This has been especially important with Bernal because of his 2024 ACL tear. But although there’s no point getting wound up over hypotheticals, it’s not a crime to wonder if this would’ve been the case if the midfield wasn’t so stacked. Would it also have been the same if Barca – with an 11 point lead – weren’t cruising La Liga amid a European KO?
When someone in that area of the pitch is out, there are usually a couple of teammates ready to step up. After all, it was a knock to Frenkie de Jong that paved the way for Bernal’s starting streak. And as the Dutchman made his own recovery, Gavi then entered the fray. The Andalusian has been a regular fix since, in a number of roles across the centre of the park.
Next season, one of the most interesting things about the make up of Flick’s side will be seeing who the German fancies to partner Pedri. For someone like Bernal, however, there’s also the chance to sit behind that duo at the base.
