Spain’s Under-21 coach David Gordo has shed light on the surprising omission of Barcelona starlet Marc Bernal from the squad for the upcoming international break. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) recently announced the selected players, with Barcelona fielding five representatives in the senior team. However, Bernal, a player who has been a regular fixture in the youth squad, was notably left out.
Gordo attributed Bernal’s exclusion to his limited playing time under manager Hansi Flick at Barcelona, which has prevented him from achieving optimal match fitness. “He’s getting very few minutes of play, and it’s not a comfortable situation for him,” Gordo stated. He emphasized the need for players on the Under-21 team who are match-ready to help secure victories in their upcoming matches.
Since returning to the squad nearly two months ago after a period of absence, Bernal’s contributions have been minimal. His appearances have primarily been brief, with under ten minutes per game in matches against Valencia, Real Oviedo, PSG, and Olympiacos. Despite Barcelona’s urgent need for midfield depth, especially following Pedri’s injury, Bernal’s inability to secure a more significant role remains a point of concern.
The situation highlights the challenges young talents face when competing for minutes in top clubs, where squad depth and tactical decisions can determine their development. As Bernal continues to work towards regaining his full fitness and place in the team, there is hope that he will soon demonstrate the potential that earned him recognition as one of Spain’s brightest young prospects. The coaching staff’s cautious approach to his recovery suggests a long-term strategy that may ultimately benefit the player and the team.