The good news for Barcelona was short-lived. After receiving positive news on Ronald Araujo’s condition, medical tests did not yield good results for Marc Bernal, who also left Saturday’s match against Atlético Madrid injured.
After coming on in the 39th minute to replace Araujo, Bernal was forced to request a substitution in the 63rd minute due to pain. He was replaced by Jules Koundé during the match, which Barcelona won 2-1.
According to Mundo Deportivo, tests conducted on Bernal on Sunday morning confirmed a sprained ankle, requiring him to be sidelined for at least 10 days.
Therefore, Bernal will miss Barcelona’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atlético Madrid next Wednesday, as well as the derby against Espanyol next Saturday.
The hope now is that Bernal will recover in time to play in the second leg against Atlético Madrid at Camp Nou next Tuesday.
It’s worth noting that Bernal, who recently returned from a cruciate ligament injury, has made 28 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring five goals and providing one assist. His presence has become crucial for Barça given Frenkie de Jong’s injury and the limited options in midfield. His absence would therefore be a significant blow to coach Hansi Flick.
