Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is keen to ensure Marc Bernal’s full recovery from his injury, and has therefore refused to give him any opportunity to participate in Barça’s pre-season or official La Liga matches.
According to Sport, Bernal, who has returned from a cruciate ligament injury, has been fit to play since early August, but Flick has categorically refused to include him in more than group training.
The 18-year-old tried to convince Flick to allow him to participate in part of the Joan Gamper Trophy friendly match against Como, but the coach refused outright, believing he needs a full year before playing again, in line with established medical protocols.
The German coach is keen to adopt a cautious approach with Bernal due to his young age and his awareness that his muscular build does not allow him to be rushed back into the game. This approach is also supported by the club, which respects and appreciates the player greatly.
Sport reports that Flick explicitly told Bernal when he asked to play against Como, “I want you for 15 years, not just one game.”
Bernal tore his cruciate ligament on September 9, 2024, and Flick is expected to give him a chance to play again after the next international break, specifically in the match against Valencia scheduled for September 14, 2025.
It’s worth noting that Bernal received numerous offers this summer to leave Barcelona and regain his form, but ultimately decided that remaining with Flick’s squad was the best option for him.
