In a devastating blow to Barcelona, teenage midfielder Marc Bernal is facing up to 12 months on the sidelines due to a brutal ACL injury. The 2007-born talent suffered the injury deep into injury time during Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano on August 27, leaving him in tears as he was helped off the field by the medical staff. In addition to tearing his ACL, Bernal also damaged his meniscus, prolonging his recovery time.
Following an immediate operation, Barcelona confirmed that the surgery was successful, but Bernal is expected to be out until September 2025. The club released a statement saying, “The player Marc Bernal has undergone a successful surgical procedure on the injury to the anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus in his left knee carried out by Dr. Joan Carles Monllau under the supervision of the club’s medical services at Barcelona Hospital. Recovery time is expected to be 12 months.”
The injury comes at a crucial time for Bernal, who had been making his mark in Hansi Flick’s squad after impressive performances in pre-season. The midfielder had started all three of Barcelona’s La Liga matches this season, contributing to victories over Athletic Bilbao, Valencia, and Vallecano. Prior to the season, Bernal signed a contract extension with Barcelona until 2026, with the possibility of an extension until 2029.
A product of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy, Bernal has also represented Spain at the Under-17 level, featuring in the 2023 World Cup. Unfortunately, Bernal is one of several Barcelona players currently sidelined by injuries. Midfielders Gavi and Frenkie de Jong are out with ACL and ankle issues respectively, while Fermin Lopez and Andreas Christensen are also nursing injuries. However, there is hope for the return of Ansu Fati, who could recover from a foot problem in time for the upcoming match against Girona.
