Barcelona talent Marc Bernal responds to Rodri competition after impressive Rayo Vallecano display: ‘Good and healthy’ | OneFootball

Marc Bernal continues to make his case at Barcelona. 

The academy graduate started again against Rayo Vallecano, with Hansi Flick leaving Rodri on the bench despite indicating before the match that the summer signing would start.

Bernal took his opportunity once again, producing another assured performance as Barcelona maintained their perfect start to the season, beating Rayo Vallecano 5-2. 

The midfielder was pleased with both his own display and the team’s victory.

“I’m very happy with the match,” Bernal told DAZN (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

Rather than getting carried away, the youngster insisted there is plenty more to come from the team.

“We’ll keep working hard – three wins out of three – and try to achieve all our objectives,” he said.

Bernal embraces competition from Rodri

Marc Bernal started ahead of Rodri. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Rodri’s arrival has inevitably raised questions about Bernal’s role, particularly with the Spain international expected to compete for the same midfield position.

For Bernal, though, competition is simply part of playing for Barcelona.

In fact, rather than viewing Rodri’s presence as a threat, Bernal appears to see the competition as an opportunity to develop alongside a top-class midfielder.

“This is Barça, the biggest club in the world. There’s competition, of course, but that’s good and healthy.”

Raphinha and Lamine Yamal earn Bernal’s praise

Bernal also reserved plenty of praise for Barcelona’s attacking stars.

He singled out captain Raphinha as an important influence on the younger players in the squad, describing the Brazilian as “a role model. 

“He helps us young players; that’s the sort of captain we want, and we respect him greatly,” he added.

Bernal was delighted with Lamine Yamal’s brace. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Lamine Yamal was another obvious source of satisfaction after finally getting on the scoresheet twice.

“He couldn’t score in the first two matches, but he always shows the quality he possesses, which is immense. 

“He managed to score two goals, and we are delighted for him.”

Bernal’s comments also highlighted the excitement around Barcelona’s summer recruitment. 

Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi impressed on the night, with the midfielder describing them as “two great additions.”

He credited the club’s sporting department for bringing the pair to Catalonia and added, 

“The manager and the staff are doing things right,” he concluded.