Barcelona midfield prodigy missed Europa friendly due to muscle overload | OneFootball

FC Barcelona began their 2026-27 pre-season with a convincing 4-1 victory over Europa in a behind-closed-doors friendly in the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper on Friday night.

While Hansi Flick handed minutes to most of the players available, Marc Bernal was one of the few who did not feature.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the La Masia midfielder was left out as a precaution after suffering a minor muscle overload.

Set to travel for England camp

The issue is not considered serious, and both the coaching staff and the player agreed there was no need to take unnecessary risks.

Like the rest of the players who reported for pre-season on 13 July, Bernal has been given a rest day following the friendly and is expected to travel with the squad to England on 27 July for Barcelona’s pre-season training camp.

No major concern with Bernal’s overload. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The squad will be based there until 3 August as Flick continues preparations for the new campaign.

Key role beckons Bernal

Bernal ended last season as one of Flick’s most trusted players. After easing his way back into action following a lengthy spell out with a serious knee injury, the young midfielder gradually established himself as an important part of the German coach’s plans.

His absence against Europa was therefore viewed purely as a precaution rather than a cause for concern.

With Frenkie de Jong now sidelined for an extended period of at least four months, Flick will once again turn to Bernal as Pedri’s partner in midfield in the upcoming season.

The teenage gem will, therefore, have an integral role for the Catalans once the campaign kicks off.

Set for a prominent role. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Growing interest and an improved contract

Bernal’s talent and potential have not gone unnoticed, with the midfielder attracting plenty of interest from the Premier League in recent days.

Indeed, as reported earlier this week, Manchester City have already made an enquiry for the La Masia gem, while Arsenal and Chelsea have also shown interest.

However, Bernal has no plans to leave the club while Barcelona themselves are firmly against his departure.

In fact, the Blaugrana will soon begin work on offering him an improved contract given that he is currently one of the lowest-earning members of the senior team.