It was in September, against Valencia, that Marc Bernal made his return for Barcelona, after a year out due to an ACL injury.
However, the 18-year-old midfield prodigy has barely featured since then, with Hansi Flick & co. exercising great caution in his reintegration after a serious injury and a lengthy time out.
Despite his lack of minutes, Bernal was called up to the Spain U-21 squad earlier this month, only for the player to be omitted after further discussions between Barça and the national team setup.
Spain U-21 consider calling up Bernal again
However, now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Bernal is once again being considered for selection by Spain’s Under-21 team for the two official matches scheduled for November during the third international break of the season.
The Spanish U-21 national team is set to face San Marino on 14 November and Romania on 18 November.
As mentioned earlier, earlier in October, Bernal was included in the squad list, but the Under-21 team decided to withdraw the young midfielder after Hansi Flick expressed surprise and concern over his call-up.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) stated that he was released due to “physical discomfort,” although the following day, he was included in Barcelona’s squad for the match against Sevilla, where he did not play.
Marc Bernal, Barcelona player
Bernal could be called up by Spain U21 next month. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Bernal also remained on the bench against Girona but featured for 10 minutes in the European win over Olympiacos. He was an unused substitute in the Clasico last weekend.
As before, the RFEF technical staff will contact Barcelona to assess Bernal’s physical condition and current progress, aiming for a mutual understanding.
On the previous occasion, the club submitted detailed reports explaining why it was preferable for him not to join the national team, prioritising the player’s health. The RFEF ultimately agreed and decided to release him.
Before the next international break, Barcelona are scheduled to play three matches against Elche, Club Brugge, and Celta Vigo, and Bernal’s potential call-up will depend on the playing time he receives.
Given that Barcelona have lost Pedri to an injury for over a month, there is a good possibility that Bernal receives minutes going forward, which could lead to his inclusion in the Spain U-21 squad.