Barcelona’s emerging midfield starlet set to face at least ten months out

Hansi Flick’s plan for the pivot position at Barcelona largely revolved around La Masia. Marc Bernal, in particular, stood out to the new manager as a reliable and versatile option in the position.

Just three games into the season, however, Flick’s worst fears came true as the young 17-year-old midfielder left the field in excruciating pain against Rayo Vallecano.

His setback was later confirmed to be an ACL tear and a surgery was posted for this week. After a sudden postponement for medical reasons, he is set to go under the blade tomorrow.

When will Bernal return?

As revealed in a recent update by AS, Bernal’s injury is similar to the blow Gavi suffered last season.

Both players ruptured their anterior cruciate ligaments with involvements of the meniscus.

His surgery will be performed tomorrow by the well-known specialist Joan Carles Monllau and he will be out for a minimum of ten months as it stands.

At this point, a return for the player this season appears improbable, if not impossible especially given that his incorporation once fit must also be gradual.

Who will replace Bernal this season?

Barcelona’s decision to not sign a new defensive midfielder this summer largely revolved around Marc Bernal’s quality. Now, however, Flick must turn to backup options.

Marc Casado who started the team’s most recent game against Real Valladolid is the coach’s first-choice replacement and is a natural defensive midfielder.

Eric Garcia, meanwhile, will also serve as deputy in the position given the long list of injuries Barcelona face in their squad.

While currently out injured, Andreas Christensen can also serve as a valuable option for the manager once fit.

Frenkie de Jong is yet another option who can play in the double pivot in the short term.