Barcelona midfielder’s recovery progressing well, return set for September | OneFootball

Barcelona youngster Marc Bernal continues to make steady progress in his recovery from a serious knee injury, but his return to the pitch is not expected until September.

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, the 18-year-old midfielder is working hard in training but will not be rushed back into action.

Bernal suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, along with damage to his external meniscus, during Barcelona’s league clash against Rayo Vallecano on 27 August 2024. Weeks later, he underwent surgery and was given a 12-month recovery plan.

Despite returning to full training intensity, the club’s medical staff and coaches have decided to follow a cautious approach.

The plan is to have Bernal back in competitive action after the first international break in September, targeting the La Liga fixture against Valencia. This would mark almost exactly one year since his operation.

Taking no risks with his return

Marc Bernal could return in September. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The decision to wait until September is not due to any setback in Bernal’s recovery. On the contrary, his rehabilitation has gone smoothly, and he has shown no signs of complications.

However, Barcelona’s approach follows the advice of top specialists in sports medicine, who recommend that young players recovering from knee injuries take their time before returning.

Experts believe that for players still developing physically, a slower and more careful rehabilitation process reduces the risk of long-term damage and improves the chances of a full recovery.

This approach is becoming more common in elite football, especially with injuries as serious as an ACL tear.

For Barcelona, Bernal is a valuable talent for the future, and the club is willing to wait a few extra weeks to ensure he returns in peak condition.

While fans may be eager to see him back on the pitch, the focus remains on protecting his long-term career and avoiding any risk of recurrence.