Barcelona midfield prodigy receives medical clearance; targeting return vs Valencia | OneFootball

After seeing his progress halted by a long-term injury, Marc Bernal has a point to prove heading into the new season.

Barcelona have put immense faith in the young midfielder, who remains one of the key players worth keeping an eye on heading into the 2025/26 campaign.

However, Bernal didn’t get to see much action during Barcelona’s pre-season tour to Asia as he hadn’t received the medical clearance.

Bernal cleared to play

But a recent report from Diario SPORT suggests that Marc Bernal has finally received the medical clearance from the Barcelona team doctors.

This comes after an extensive examination confirmed his excellent physical condition and a very satisfactory recovery.

The midfielder has been sidelined for almost a year following surgery, and this all-clear marks a huge milestone in his rehabilitation.

Marc Bernal is finally cleared to play (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

He is now training without major restrictions and will be part of the squad for the upcoming Joan Gamper Trophy.

That said, the clearance doesn’t automatically mean an immediate return to competitive action.

Barcelona’s medical protocol recommends waiting a full 365 days from the date of the operation before a player participates in an official match.

Flick’s call

The final decision will rest with Hansi Flick, who will weigh the benefits of an early return against the risk of rushing the process.

While there is optimism that Bernal could make his competitive comeback in mid-September, potentially in the home clash against Valencia at the newly reopened Spotify Camp Nou.

For now, Bernal’s focus is on training at full intensity and ensuring that when he does step back onto the pitch, it will be to stay there for good.