Marc Bernal talks Flick, Gavi, Pedri, Busquets comparison, injury after Barcelona renewal | OneFootball

Even though it was almost a year ago when Marc Bernal showed exceptional promise, Barcelona have made a huge statement by renewing the contract of the young midfielder.

Bernal, who has recently returned from a long injury layoff, has signed a new contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2029.

This deal is going to go a long way in securing his long-term future at the club while he fights for a place in the first team this season.

What Bernal said after signing the contract

After the contract extension, Bernal spoke to the media (h/t MARCA), claiming this to be the most special day of his life.

“Today is the most special and beautiful day of my life. It’s what all of us players who have grown up like this strive for, and I hope to be here for many more years,” he said.

Bernal also highlighted what this renewal means for him mentally, especially having been out for so long.

“The truth is that when I got injured and they told me Barça wanted to renew my contract, I felt like I was at rock bottom.

“It was a very tough day for me. They did something very special, something that meant a lot to me and my family. I owe everything to the club of my life,” he said.

Although Bernal was out for a year or so, the midfielder revealed that Hansi Flick had played a key role in his road to recovery.

“There have been many people who have helped me a lot. Hansi surprised me from the very beginning. When I was in the hospital, he came to visit me. He has been very close to me and attentive throughout the entire process,” he said.

“I couldn’t believe being young and playing what I did in preseason, and in the three official matches I played, I felt very good, and I have to be grateful to him,” he added, when asked about Flick’s presence in the locker room.

Speaking of his injury, the midfielder also offered an update on his fitness and answered whether or not we can see the best version of Bernal soon.

“Well, I don’t think playing is important for me right now. I have to get into the swing of things, but little by little. Everything at its own pace. Marc will be the best when it’s time,” he answered.

The youngster also talked about his role in the team and the road ahead, notably expressing his desire to stay at the club in the years to come.

“The most important thing is that I work well; that’s important for me and for the team,” he said. “I hope to be at this club for many years. You told me this two years ago, and I didn’t believe it.”‘

Bernal’s injury comes at a time when Barcelona are struggling with multiple injuries, with his teammate Gavi also picking up a similar knock.

“When they said what had happened to Gavi, he also ended up recovering from a year-long injury. Something like that happening to you again must be very tough. We have to support him and be by his side,” he said about Gavi.

This might ultimately aid Bernal as far as first-team opportunities are concerned, though he will mostly be competing against La Masia graduates.

“It helps that we all know each other from La Masia. We know what it’s like to be promoted to the first team, and it feels more comfortable,” he said.

The next big midfield prodigy for Barcelona? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“Being at Barça, you learn a little from everyone. Right now, Pedri is the player I’m focusing on the most,” he added when asked about a player he admires.

While Bernal might admire Pedri, many think the youngster’s gameplay is similar to Sergio Busquets, who has recently announced his retirement.

Talking about Busquets comparisons, Bernal said, “In the end, I don’t put the label on myself. I don’t think so. I follow my own path. So, for me, it’s not pressure.”

The youngster also talked about returning to Spotify Camp Nou, adding, “It’s going to be spectacular, we’re really looking forward to playing at Camp Noú again.”

Finally, Bernal talked about the upcoming Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain, admitting there is a lot of desire in the dressing room to beat the European champions.

“The truth is that it’s a game, it’s going to be very exciting. The truth is that there’s a lot of desire in the locker room, and I’m sure we’ll pull it off,” he said.

“I think we’re all really hungry and going for it,” he concluded when asked about winning the Champions League.