Had to wait 383 days
© Imago
Marc Bernal had to wait 383 days for his comeback for FC Barcelona, after returning to the square he was now rewarded with an extension of the contract. The midfield talent signed a new working paper on Monday by June 30, 2029. Both sides used a corresponding option in the contract that was previously valid until 2026, which provided a possible expansion by three years.
A year ago, Under Hansi Flick, Bernal’s own grown not only made the jump to the professionals, but also played directly into the starting eleven. On the 3rd matchday the shock: The then 17-year-old tore the cruciate ligament against Rayo Vallecano (2-1) in added time. The season was over. “I learned a lot, especially how you stay strong and tried not to think too much if things don’t go so well,” said Bernal later. “There were moments when I just wanted to stay at home and sleep all day.”
Flick always emphasized that the talent, which is often compared to Barça icon Sergio Busquets (37), to leave enough time for a return. On the 4th matchday of the new season, the time had finally come: Bernal was substituted nine minutes before the end in the 6-0 against FC Valencia, shortly afterwards he contributed the template to the final score by Robert Lewandowski. “After this long way it was a great moment. Marc Bernal worked really hard and the fans took him very well when he was substituted. It means a lot to the fans, the club and the team. You noticed that in his substitution. I am very happy for everyone,” said Flick.