Marc Bernal was one of the La Masia-trained youngsters who benefitted the most from Hansi Flick’s arrival on the FC Barcelona bench. Right after the German coach’s arrival, he became the starter as the team’s defensive midfielder. However, an unfortunate long-term injury significantly derailed his career, and things have not been the same since then.
It has been some time since he recovered fully from his injury, but this year, he is facing quite a different challenge. The Blaugranes signed one of the best defensive midfielders in the world, Rodri Hernandez, during the last summer transfer window, and the Spaniard’s arrival means Bernal would be getting significantly less minutes on the pitch.
As [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20261110/1004249612/marc-bernal-rodri-fichan-balon-oro-dificil-jugar.html) has reported, the young Barcelona midfielder appeared in an interview with Radio Catalunya, and talked about this challenge. Before that, he commented on the win against Atletico Madrid:
**“I’m happy with how the match at the Metropolitano ended. It was very important, and we felt the same way inside the dressing room. It was one of those matches that leaves you feeling very satisfied.”**
On the other hand, he also recognized that Real Madrid are emerging as a significant threat in Spain:
**“I think we’re still at the beginning of the season, and it’s true that Real Madrid are getting better and better. But we know that if we perform at our level and do what we need to do, we can win La Liga. There were no doubts after the two consecutive defeats. It was difficult, but we managed to win on Sunday and we’re happy with that.”**
Bernal understood that his role was going to diminish with the arrival of a player like Rodri:
**“Ultimately, when a Ballon d’Or winner is brought in, it’s harder to get into the team and play because, in my opinion, you have the best player in the world in that position. I’ve had the opportunity to play now because of his injury, and I’m happy with how the manager has handled the situation.”**
The young midfielder revealed that the club assured him that he will remain an important player when Rodri was signed:
**“When I found out, I knew and was aware of the kind of club I was at. Competition at Barça is what it is, and it’s healthy because we’re competing for everything. Once the signing became official, the manager, Deco and the board all reassured me because the season is very long and there are minutes for everyone. I’m only 19, and it’s a long season.”**
Going forward, the youngster was ready to sign a renewal with Barcelona:
**“My intention has always been to stay here. My agent is handling the contract renewal, and I hope to sign it as soon as possible.”**
Although he is already a very capable player, Bernal admitted that he still needs to improve going forward:
**“I can still improve in quite a few areas. Defensively, I need to take a step forward. I’ve improved since last season, but I still have room to grow and I have time. I’m only 19. I have to prove that I can play in big matches like the one at the Metropolitano against Atlético Madrid.”**
The Spaniard also opened up on his preferred positions, and revealed that he has never played as a center-back before:
**“I prefer playing as a defensive midfielder, but I also enjoy playing as an interior midfielder, as an ‘8’, and I’ve had some playing time there this season. They’re different roles.”**
**“Well, I don’t think I’ve ever played as a centre-back, and I think I’d struggle in that position. But I can’t tell you any more because I’ve never tried it.”**
Having a player as capable as Marc Bernal as a backup is quite a luxury for Barcelona. He will be a substitute again once [Rodri returns from his injury](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/hansi-flick-dealt-major-setback-as-barcelona-lose-key-midfielder-for-three-weeks/), but he is still going to be important if the Blaugranes are to compete for all the big titles this season.