Marc Bernal is back, and I hope you guys have not forgotten the youngster. The potential Busquets successor’s return asks us how Flick will integrate him into the current squad. Let’s dissect how the La Masia prodigy’s return could make Barca’s midfield a European powerhouse.
Barcelona Midfield is Getting Another Shakeup
Marc Bernal rose through the La Masia ranks and debuted for Barca this season. The youngster impressed everyone due to his great composure and IQ at the pivot position. Unfortunately, Bernal ruptured his ACL in a match against Rayo, ending his season. However, reports claim that Bernal is expected to return to training next week, and this is big. The midfielder’s recovery has been unexpectedly quick, and this shows the player’s grit and medical team’s efforts.
As Bernal is on the verge of returning, it is time for the Barcelona midfield to get another shakeup. Casado and Gavi, especially, need to come out of comfort and triple their efforts. The competition will be extremely high, and Flick’s bench strength will be phenomenal.
A Double Pivot to Improve Barcelona’s Defence?
With Bernal’s return, Flick will have a wealth of options. Casado, de Jong, and now Bernal will be available to control the tempo of the game at the all-important pivot position. All three have unique abilities, and Flick can start them according to his requirements. However, as Flick looks to improve his defence in certain games against low-block teams, Bernal’s return offers an interesting option for the German.
Why not go with a double pivot of Bernal and deJong or Casado? Both pivots can shield the Barcelona backline and complement Flick’s high line. A pivot duo of de Jong and Bernal could dominate midfield battles and help the ball progress from pressure situations.
This would free Pedri and Olmo to wreak havoc in spaces. It might make us sacrifice a forward, but it can bring results against teams who have consistently parked the bus, especially in La Liga games.
Bernal’s Return From Injury Will Complete Barcelona’s Midfield
Barcelona’s midfield is already packed with talent, and with Bernal’s return, we can expect a midfield ready to dominate Europe for a long time. Barcelona has number 6 players with the likes of Gavi and de Jong. The number eight and ten roles are sturdy as well, with Pedri and Olmo. And now, the pivot role is also enhanced with Casado and now Bernal.
After Busquets’ retirement, the pivot role’s actual value was realized because the Catalan team has always relied on a good defensive midfielder to control the game’s tempo. As Bernal sets to return, the depth and options in midfield will be diverse, and this will complete the team’s midfield.
Bernal’s return is nothing but good news. Flick will have a wealth of options in midfield with his return and let’s see how he effectively develops this youngster.