Barcelona register Marc Bernal with first team as teenager eyes debut against Valencia
Barcelona have officially registered Marc Bernal in the first-team squad, with the 17-year-old midfielder set to wear the number 22 shirt this season. His registration was made possible after Héctor Fort completed a loan move to Elche.
The move comes almost exactly a year after Bernal suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury in Vallecas, which sidelined him for most of the 2023/24 campaign. Now fully recovered, the La Masia product is ready to take his next step at Camp Nou.
Flick approves, debut could come after FIFA break
Head coach Hansi Flick has welcomed Bernal’s promotion and is keen to integrate him into the squad, though the German tactician is expected to manage his minutes carefully, much like he did with Gavi in the past.
According to AS journalist Sergi de Juan, Bernal’s official debut could arrive on September 14 against Valencia, immediately following the international break. Within the club, there is growing optimism about his physical progress and tactical maturity.
Renewal until 2029 on the way
Barcelona are also preparing to announce Bernal’s contract renewal until 2029. His release clause will remain set at €500 million, matching the conditions of his previous deal, which ran until 2026.
The extension not only secures Bernal’s future at the club but also formalizes his new first-team status, now reflected in his La Liga registration.
From academy jewel to first-team midfielder
Having risen through the ranks at La Masia, Bernal is regarded as one of the academy’s brightest talents. A defensive midfielder praised for his reading of the game and strong physical presence, he has been training with the senior squad since preseason.
His registration marks the final milestone in his recovery journey: from a promising youngster struck by injury to an official member of Barcelona’s first team, ready to begin a new chapter in his Blaugrana career.
