Marc Bernal's injury at the start of the season is both a major tragedy for the player and a major 'what if' moment for Barcelona. Hansi Flick could have at least made use of the depth in recent weeks, but also of his ball sense.
Bernal tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a win over Rayo Vallecano late in September after starting their first three games of the season. Sport reports that his recovery is going well so far, and that the work he does with elastic bands and strengthening his muscles normally takes longer due to cruciate injuries involving the meniscus.
However, he is unlikely to return from action sooner. Barcelona wants him to recover from the injury for at least a year, as was the case with Gavi. They do not want his injury to have a long-term impact and will therefore keep him out of action until September next year.
The 18-year-old midfielder had only made his debut this season, but based on the early start, he was ready for a key role under Hansi Flick. Bernal served as a midfielder, but last season he acted more as a number eight for Barca Atletic.
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