Barcelona’s preparations for the upcoming campaign have hit full stride under new boss Hansi Flick.
The Catalan giants recently clashed with Vissel Kobe as part of their pre-season tour of Asia.
While Flick’s senior squad continues to fine-tune its tactics, the spotlight has also shifted to several emerging talents hoping to impress.
Among them is a young midfielder who made waves last year before an untimely injury halted his rise.
Now, with Barcelona’s Joan Gamper Trophy on the horizon, excitement is growing for a long-awaited return.
Marc Bernal is inching closer to a competitive comeback, according to a fresh update from Diario Sport.
The highly rated 18-year-old has returned to group training following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Marc Bernal suffered a serious ACL injury nearly a year ago, shortly after breaking into the first-team picture at the Camp Nou.
Despite his momentum being cruelly cut short, his recovery has steadily progressed in recent months.
Before Barça’s recent friendly against Vissel Kobe, the teenager was seen going through a vigorous warm-up on the sidelines.
It’s an encouraging sign that has not gone unnoticed by Flick and his coaching staff.
While Bernal is not expected to feature in the club’s remaining pre-season tour matches, optimism is growing regarding his next milestone.
According to Sport, should his recovery remain on track, Bernal could feature in the Joan Gamper Trophy clash next month.
Barcelona are scheduled to face newly promoted Serie A outfit Como at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
The annual showcase traditionally serves as a final dress rehearsal before the La Liga season begins.
For Bernal, it could mark his emotional return to competitive action in front of the home support.
His reintegration could also bolster Flick’s midfield depth as the club juggles domestic and European commitments.
If he continues on his current path, Marc Bernal may soon pick up where he left off — as one of Barca’s brightest young stars.
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