FC Barcelona closed this Monday the expected renewal of Marc Bernal. The 18-year-old midfielder, as agreed, extended his contract with the club for three more seasons, until the summer of 2029, keeping his release clause at 500 million euros.
During the official renewal ceremony at the club's headquarters, the player from Berga expressed his happiness for receiving the unconditional support of the board and the coaching staff after the serious injury to his left knee that he suffered in August 2024.
"The worst thing was when I couldn't even walk. It has been a very hard year, but from the first moment I have been surprised by the attitude of the club, the teammates and the staff, because they have welcomed me very well and they know how hard it is for a player," the youth player began by saying after signing his new contract.
Marc Bernal is clear: his recovery is just beginning
Similarly, Bernal was sincere about his return to work with the Barça squad. The midfielder, already with a first-team card and the '22' on his back, played a handful of minutes against Valencia (6-0), a match where he had the luxury of adding an assist.
Although he does not hide his desire to return to his best version, the one with which he delighted Hansi Flick in the summer of 2024 and made him worthy of starting the season as a starter alongside Pedri, Marc understands that, for now, the most important thing is to work hard, but with a lot of patience and, above all, prudence.
"For me, right now, it is not important to play. I have to pick up the pace, take advantage of the minutes... The best Marc will be when it's time," said the Catalan midfielder. Similarly, he said he felt in the best day of his life. "It doesn't even enter into a dream, you tell me this two years ago and I don't believe it," he added in a message for the club's networks.
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When I got injured and they told me that Barça wanted to renew me, it was special. I owe everything to Barça, it is the club of my life"
The comparison with Busquets, Gavi's injury... Marc Bernal confesses
On the other hand, Marc Bernal spoke about the comparison with Sergio Busquets. Due to his position and style of play, in addition to his physical stature, the player from Berga has quite similar characteristics to the legend of Barcelona and the Spanish National Team, who recently announced his retirement.
"Busquets has been one of my greatest idols. When I got injured, he sent me a message and it made me very happy. He is a great person. A legend of football. The comparison? I don't put that label on myself, so I don't feel pressure," said the 18-year-old player.
Similarly, he spoke about the injury of Gavi, who will again be out for several months due to his problems in his right knee. "He comes from a long injury and for it to happen to you again must be hard. We must support him, be by his side."
Finally, Marc referred to the expected Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain, a duel where the midfielder will be available on the bench. "The match against PSG will be cool. There is desire in the dressing room. We will surely get it forward."
"I dream of winning many titles with Barcelona for many years"
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