Spain U21 coach reveals why Barcelona starlet has been overlooked for upcoming international break | OneFootball

Earlier today, the RFEF announced the national team squad for Spain’s games in the upcoming international break, and Barcelona have a large contingent with five players called up.

Also in action during the same break will be Spain’s Under-21 team, one that has relied on several La Masia stars in recent years.

Marc Bernal, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising players in Spain’s youth setup and one of the best young talents in his position, is usually a mainstay for the youth team.

Surprisingly, however, he has not been called up by the Under-21 team for the upcoming games.

Manager explains Bernal’s absence

Bernal’s reintegration is moving very slow. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Earlier today, Spain Under-21 manager David Gordo faced the media (h/t MARCA) and was asked about the Barcelona midfielder’s exclusion from the squad for the upcoming international break.

The manager pointed to Bernal’s lack of minutes under Hansi Flick and the resulting lack of match fitness as the reason for his omission.

“He’s getting very few minutes of play, and it’s not a comfortable situation for him,” he began.

“We’ve put together a squad to play these two matches, and we need players who can help us win them, and these are the players in the squad,” he added.

It has now been nearly two months since the teenager returned to Barcelona’s squad and made his comeback against Valencia.

Since then, however, his involvement has been minimal, as he played no part in the games against Newcastle United, Getafe, Real Sociedad, Sevilla, Girona, Real Madrid, Elche, and Club Brugge.

His only brief appearances this season have come against Valencia, Real Oviedo, PSG, and Olympiacos, and he averages under ten minutes per game in those matches.

Given how Barcelona have been short on depth in midfield in recent weeks, especially after the injury to Pedri, it is surprising that Flick has not called on Bernal for a larger contribution.

It is understandable that the manager wishes to be cautious with his recovery, but there is a real feeling that the youngster is being held back and might not be training as well as would be expected of him.