Barcelona have officially rejected a loan approach from Ajax for midfield prodigy Marc Bernal. Despite interest from the Dutch giants and the lure of guaranteed starting minutes under incoming director Jordi Cruyff, Hansi Flick has personaly intervened to keep the 18-year-old at the Spotify Camp Nou.
While the Barça board initially considered a six-month loan to help Bernal regain match sharpness following his ACL recovery, Flick is reportedly “obsessed” with the youngster’s short-term potential. The German coach views Bernal as a vital “secret weapon” for the final stretch of La Liga and the Champions League.
The “Cruyff” Plan
Ajax’s interest was more than just a casual enquiry. Jordi Cruyff, set to become Ajax’s sporting director in February 2026, had identified Bernal as the cornerstone of his new project. The plan offered Bernal:
- Undisputed Starter Status: Immediate minutes in a league famous for developing technical midfielders.
- The “La Masia” Connection: A familiar tactical environment that mirrors Barcelona’s philosophy.
Why Bernal Stayed
Despite the tempting offer, Bernal and his representatives have aligned with Flick’s vision. The player is aware that while his minutes have been sporadic (totaling around 286 minutes across 13 appearances this season), the coaching staff is planning a significant increase in his workload starting in February.
Marc Bernal’s Season Snapshot:
- Market Value: €9.7 million (and rising).
- Contract: Secured until June 2029.
- Recent Form: Increasing prominence in matchday squads, showcasing 90%+ passing accuracy in limited cameos.
Looking Ahead
With Barcelona leading La Liga by a narrow margin over Real Madrid, Flick is unwilling to weaken his squad depth. Bernal’s ability to play as a “pivot” allows the team to manage the fitness of other stars like Pedri and Gavi, ensuring the Blaugrana remain competitive on all fronts.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
