Barcelona prodigy draws confidence from Flick and teammates in injury recovery – ‘It is very close’ | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal has shared his feelings as he closes in on a return to the pitch after spending almost a year sidelined with a serious injury.

The young player was forced off in the final minute of Matchday 3 against Rayo Vallecano at the start of the 2024/25 LaLiga season, a moment that put his dreams on hold.

Now, after months of hard work and sacrifice, Bernal is determined to make his comeback.

Speaking about his current state, Bernal said, “I’m feeling really good. I’ve had a couple of weeks off to rest, and now I’m back in training.

“That’s what I wanted the most — to get back to working with the team as soon as possible.”

When asked if he has set a date for his return, he explained, “I’m not thinking about any specific date right now. It depends on how I feel and what the physical therapists and trainers decide.”

Bernal knows the importance of patience. “You can start training, but playing again takes time. You have to go step by step. But I’ve touched the ball again, and that feeling is amazing,” he shared with a big smile.

Camp Nou return and support from his teammates

Marc Bernal is close to returning. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Fans wondered if Bernal could return in time for the Joan Gamper Trophy on August 10th at the new Spotify Camp Nou.

“It’s very close… It’s true that it will be at the new Camp Nou, but the truth is, I see it as too close. There’s no date yet, but I’m already dreaming of playing after a long time,” he admitted.

Bernal also spoke about the support he’s received during this tough period. “Hansi Flick has been great. He told me to stay calm, that I have a bright future ahead, and that I’d be back. He’s very approachable and gives me a lot of confidence.”

He highlighted captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s help as well: “We trained together while he was injured, and he gave me a lot of advice. He’s helped me gain experience and stay positive.”

Bernal also had kind words for Ansu Fati, who left for Monaco. “I wish him the best. He’s been through what I’ve gone through, and he helped me a lot,” he said.

As for competition for a spot in midfield alongside players like Marc Casado, Frenkie de Jong, and Pedri, Bernal is ready for the challenge. “I’m at Barça’s first team — what do you expect? Competition is healthy. It pushes us all to be better,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo