Barcelona believes that their youth system remains shining as the club gears up to secure another young talent for the long term.
Following a breakout pre-season and an abbreviated but impressive first-team role, a teenage midfielder caught the eye of fans and boss Hansi Flick alike.
Even after getting a heartless ACL injury towards the start of the season, ending what was potentially going to be a coming-out year, the club’s confidence in the teenager is unwavering.
The 17-year-old, who had impressed in his three senior appearances before injury intervened, has been working hard on his rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation is going well, and he should be back in time for next season’s pre-season training.
Barcelona’s coaching staff, led by Flick, regard him as a key player in the future of the team and have reassured him that his position in the team is safe.
Now the club is poised to make its commitment official.
There has been a renewal agreement since September, but the official signing was held back at the player’s request—he wished to concentrate on his rehabilitation before signing on the dotted line.
The wait is almost over, as the transfer is to be completed next month when he becomes 18.
The player in question is Marc Bernal, one of La Masia’s most promising young players, according to Diario Sport.
His new deal will last until 2029 and feature a first-team wage as well as a hefty release clause, following the same pattern as other young stars such as Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí.
Bernal is seen as Barcelona’s future pivot, something Flick feels he can develop into with patience.
With all settled, the official confirmation should come any day now—a huge morale booster for a club taking a gamble on its future.
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