Hansi Flick in attendance to watch Barcelona midfielder in international action after long lay-off – Report | OneFootball

Many FC Barcelona players were away on international duty for their countries as they looked to confirm qualification for the World Cup next year. However, Marc Bernal was involved in a different fixture.

The 18-year-old midfielder was selected to feature for Catalonia in their friendly against Palestine. Bernal missed almost the entirety of last season with an ACL injury and has not seen many minutes since his return so far this season.

It was a valuable opportunity for the teenager to gain match fitness in the friendly last night and, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was in attendance to see how Bernal fared.

Bernal started the game for Catalonia, and it was pre-agreed with Barcelona that he would play only the first 45 minutes. The Spaniard produced a solid display and showed little sign of rust, which would have pleased Flick.

Despite Catalonia having little possession and the midfield lacking control, Bernal looked a shade above the rest. He also showed no signs of discomfort, something Flick would certainly have noted.

The German manager might consider giving Bernal more minutes after the international break. With Frenkie de Jong ruled out against Athletic Bilbao and Marc Casado suffering from some discomfort, Bernal could be a candidate to start against the Basque club.

Last night was a step in the right direction for Marc Bernal, and we will have to wait and see how Flick reintegrates him into the first-team picture.