Young Barcelona's midfielder makes long awaited return after injury nightmare | OneFootball

La Masia jewel completes emotional comeback at Camp Nou

Young Barcelona's midfielder makes long awaited return after injury nightmare

Barcelona claimed an important 3-1 win over Deportivo Alaves at the Camp Nou on Sunday night but the evening carried even greater significance with the return of Marc Bernal to the starting lineup

This comes more than year after he suffered serious knee injury.

Bernal one of La Masia’s brightest midfield prospects, had been sidelined for over 12 month after damaging his knee in what was considered one of the toughest setbacks of his young career.

Barcelona’s faith never wavered

Despite the long layoff, Barcelona remained fully committed to Bernal’s development. The club renewed his contract until 2029.. a decision approved by head coach Hansi Flick reaffirming the club’s belief that the 19 year old is part of their long term project.

According to Sport, club president Joan Laporta has been one of Bernal’s strongest supporters and sees him as potential leader of the next Barca generation.

When Bernal signed his new deal, Laporta reportedly told him:

A difficult year but constant support

The past season was far from easy for Bernal. His recovery required patience, extensive rehabilitation and constant mental resilience. Yet throughout the process, he was backed fully by the coaching staff, medical team and club management who all believed he would return stronger.

On Sunday night, the moment finally arrived.. Bernal stepped onto the Camp Nou pitch once again completing symbolic milestone in his journey back.

Barcelona’s 3-1 win keeps them firmly in the La Liga race and Bernal’s return adds depth & fresh energy to Flick’s midfield options.