
Flick Delays Mark Bernal's Return to Safeguard His Future
The young Barcelona player Mark Bernal is preparing to return to the pitch after a complete year of absence due to injury, as he has received medical clearance. However, the coaching staff led by Hans Flick prefers to be cautious and give him enough time to obtain competitive clearance.
Despite the player's physical readiness and his strong desire to participate, especially in the Joan Gamper Cup, Flick has halted his eagerness with clear words: "I want you for 15 years, not for a friendly match."
The club plans to give Bernal the green light for competitive participation starting from September 9, which coincides with the one-year anniversary of the surgery he underwent and aligns with the international break, giving him more time for gradual integration without pressure.
Flick understands the importance of a gradual return for the 18-year-old Bernal, especially given past experiences like that of Gavi, who was also one of Bernal's prominent supporters during his recovery. Meanwhile, the young player continues to reject the successive offers he receives, clinging to his dream of shining in the Barcelona jersey.
If everything goes as planned, Bernal is expected to receive competitive clearance between September 10 and 15, becoming one of the names the team relies on in the new season.
Despite the player's physical readiness and his strong desire to participate, especially in the Joan Gamper Cup, Flick has halted his eagerness with clear words: "I want you for 15 years, not for a friendly match."
The club plans to give Bernal the green light for competitive participation starting from September 9, which coincides with the one-year anniversary of the surgery he underwent and aligns with the international break, giving him more time for gradual integration without pressure.
Flick understands the importance of a gradual return for the 18-year-old Bernal, especially given past experiences like that of Gavi, who was also one of Bernal's prominent supporters during his recovery. Meanwhile, the young player continues to reject the successive offers he receives, clinging to his dream of shining in the Barcelona jersey.
If everything goes as planned, Bernal is expected to receive competitive clearance between September 10 and 15, becoming one of the names the team relies on in the new season.