Report reveals what Hansi Flick told recovering Barcelona gem to stop him from rushing his return | OneFootball

Over the course of the last year, Hansi Flick has seen many Barcelona players be sidelined during important stages of the season. Still, despite those injuries, the Catalan giants managed to pull through. However, a certain youngster still remains sidelined following his ACL injury last season.

Marc Bernal, aged 18, is arguably the one player who is yet to get a proper opportunity to establish himself in Flick’s team. Despite starting off the previous campaign well, the youngster ultimately ended up being sidelined due to an ACL injury, and he has stayed away from action for almost a whole year now.

Barcelona coach’s long-term plan for Marc Bernal

Photo Courtesy: The official website of FC Barcelona

Yet, despite the player reportedly feeling great now and wanting to return as soon as possible, Hansi Flick seems to have a different plan in mind. For the German coach, he is someone who will be gradually reintegrated back into the squad, and that will take a little more time.

Moreover, according to SPORT, Flick even had some words for Bernal to convince him to take things slow and steady when the youngster wanted to feature during the Joan Gamper Trophy game against Como:

“I want you for 15 years, not for a friendly.”

Some big words from the German tactician, they showcase exactly the kind of plan he has in mind for Bernal. For him, the young Spanish midfielder is someone who can give a lot to Barça in the years to come, and that is exactly why the coach is being so cautious.

For now, the plan seems to be for Bernal to finally get competitive clearance by September. While he already reportedly has the medical green light, it is now important for him to get the clearance to feature in competitive games again as well.