Barcelona’s upcoming fixture run will be key in deciding youngster’s future amid loan offers | OneFootball

Marc Bernal’s situation at FC Barcelona has taken a new turn after it emerged that the club would be willing to approve a loan move this month if the player were to request it.

The 18-year-old midfield starlet has not played regularly enough since making his comeback from an ACL injury back in September 2025.

The expectation was that the La Masia ace would see his prominence increase in the coming weeks. But with Pedri back to full fitness, Eric Garcia getting minutes in midfield, and Gavi not far away from a comeback, the situation has become tricky.

What does the future hold for Marc Bernal?

The case is therefore open, with all options still on the table, although there is an apparent turning point that could guide the final decision.

Indeed, as per Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s Copa del Rey match against Racing Santander at El Sardinero on January 15 could be a major factor in deciding the youngster’s future. It will not be decisive, but it will be indicative.

Bernal’s priority is clear: he wants to play. After losing almost a full year due to the serious knee injury he suffered in 2024, the midfielder needs minutes and competitive rhythm.

Following several months of irregular involvement, Hansi Flick has started to give him playing time again, and if that commitment continues, Bernal’s idea is to stay at the club. The coach’s opinion will be key in shaping the outcome.

A different scenario would arise if those minutes dry up. In that case, Bernal would be compelled to reconsider his future at Barça. He does not lack options.

Will Bernal stay or leave on loan? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Girona have shown interest, but they are not the only club monitoring his situation. Other teams in La Liga and across Europe have already asked and continue to ask about the possibility of signing Bernal on loan. Ultimately, the player will have the final say.

Just days ago, Flick had firmly closed the door on any departures, insisting that he counted on the entire squad. That message was also passed on to Bernal, to the point that his plan was clearly to remain at the club.

The fact that the German coach was gradually giving him minutes and increasing his involvement reinforced that decision.

After all, Bernal has gained relevance in recent matches. He played nearly half an hour against Real Betis, started and played the full first half against Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey, and again featured for 24 minutes against Villarreal last month.

In 2026 so far, he remained on the bench against Espanyol but played half an hour against Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semifinal.

From here on, the calendar will shape the final decision. Barça have six matches before the winter transfer window closes on January 31: Real Madrid (January 11), Racing (15), Real Sociedad (18), Slavia Praha (21), Oviedo (25) and Copenhagen (28).

The number of minutes he gets in this run will determine whether Bernal stays or leaves on loan.