Having entered the final phase of his recovery from an ACL injury, Barcelona prodigy Marc Bernal is already training at the Ciutat Esportiva.
The La Masia gem suffered an ACL rupture in his third official game with the first team in August 17 against Rayo Vallecano and has been working hard on his rehabilitation.
Although players are not scheduled to report back until 13 July for the start of pre-season, the midfielder has begun solo training today on the pitch, following a personalised plan set by the club’s fitness coaches.
Medical clearance in time for Asia tour
Now, according to SPORT, the hope is that Bernal will be able to join the group sessions when pre-season officially begins in two weeks
From there, the timing of his medical clearance will depend on how he feels physically, with projections pointing toward the upcoming tour of Asia.
Once he receives medical clearance, the next step will be competitive clearance – meaning the player must feel ready to return to match action. If all goes well, that return will take place in a friendly before the season begins.
Bernal’s recovery and renewal
Bernal has endured a difficult few months, which have helped him mature, supported by his family, friends, and teammates.
Closing in on a return. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
He has also grown physically – his latest medical assessment showed he has grown by two centimetres, now standing at 1.93 metres. This makes him the second-tallest player in the Barcelona squad, only behind Wojciech Szczesny (1.95m).
The midfielder’s aim now is to gradually regain his rhythm, fully aware that this will be a season that requires patience.
The club has seen a similar case with Gavi this season, who also had to manage his recovery in phases and lacked the continuity of previous seasons.
Beyond his physical recovery, Bernal is also expected to sign a contract extension after the team returns from the Asian tour. He prefers to do so once he is back in full competitive condition.
Currently under contract until 2026, Barcelona’s intention is to extend his deal through to 2029 – an agreement for which is already in place.