FC Barcelona has confirmed the return of Marc Bernal, boosting the squad with the highly-rated young midfielder’s comeback.
The Catalan giants, nine points clear at the summit, prepare to rotate squad depth after their Champions League quarterfinal exit against Atletico Madrid.
Hansi Flick’s men dominated domestically but crave fresh legs for the trip to Balaidos, where maintaining momentum proves vital amid injury recoveries and transfer rumors swirling around the club.
The star of this update is Marc Bernal, the 18-year-old midfield prodigy whose comeback from a serious ankle sprain suffered before the Atletico tie has accelerated beyond expectations.
Diario Sport confirms the La Masia graduate resumes full training on Saturday, positioning him for potential selection against Celta Vigo.
This follows medical clearance, with Flick monitoring his progress closely after the teenager travelled with the squad for the European second leg but sat out as a precaution.
Bernal’s dynamic box-to-box presence, evident in seven starts during Frenkie de Jong’s earlier absence, adds steel and creativity to midfield options like Pedri and Gavi.
Bernal’s injury layoff stemmed from a two-week prognosis post-sprain, yet his rapid rehabilitation aligns with Barcelona’s meticulous medical program.
He featured prominently earlier this season, logging key minutes with progressive passing and tackles that suit Flick’s high-pressing system.
His return bolsters a midfield hit by rotations and international duties, especially as De Jong nears full match fitness.
Against Celta, who sit mid-table but pose counterattacking threats, Marc Bernal could earn minutes off the bench, easing him back without rushing the talent once cruelly halted by an ACL tear last year.
This development lifts spirits post-Yamal’s defiant message and amid pursuits like Bastoni.
With Raphinha’s ban threat looming, squad harmony matters. Flick’s cautious integration promises Marc Bernal features soon, signaling brighter days for the Blaugrana’s engine room as they chase silverware.
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