Teenage midfielder backs himself to become a Barcelona starter this season | OneFootball

Marc Bernal has made his ambition clear ahead of the new season: he believes he is ready to become a regular starter for FC Barcelona under Hansi Flick.

As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, the 19-year-old midfielder has fully recovered from the serious knee injury that affected the beginning of last season and is approaching his third campaign with the first team with renewed confidence.

Bernal said:

“My objective is to try to reach my best possible level and play as many minutes as possible so I can help the team.”

The midfielder then delivered the clearest statement of his intentions:

“I see myself as a starter. Everyone has to have confidence in themselves and in everything they can give and contribute to the team.”

That confidence is understandable after a strong previous campaign in which Bernal made 33 appearances and scored five goals. Those numbers showed that he is capable of contributing beyond his defensive work, while his physical presence and calmness in possession remain important qualities for Flick.

Frenkie de Jong’s injury could create additional opportunities in midfield, but Bernal will still have to earn his place in a highly competitive squad. Preseason will therefore be crucial as Flick assesses who can provide control, defensive balance and reliability at the base of midfield.

Barcelona need Bernal to take the next step

Bernal’s words are exactly what Barcelona should want to hear from one of La Masia’s most promising midfielders. Confidence is essential at this level, especially for a player returning from a serious injury and competing for a position with major tactical responsibility.

He also made clear that the team’s highest objective remains the Champions League.

He said:

“The objective is the Champions League. It always has been. In the end, it is a trophy that everyone wants to win and it is what we work towards every day.”

Barcelona should not rush to hand Bernal a permanent starting position, but he deserves a genuine opportunity to claim it. His profile gives Flick something different, and his development could become even more important if De Jong remains unavailable.

The challenge now is to turn confidence into consistency. Bernal already sees himself as a starter. The next step is convincing Flick that Barcelona are stronger with him in the eleven.