Barcelona seal contract renewal for player despite long-term injury | OneFootball

FC Barcelona look like a different unit since Hansi Flick took over as the manager but one thing that has not deserted them is their torrid luck with injuries. This season, it has grown worse with every injury looking long-term.

Against Rayo Vallecano in a difficult away game, Hansi Flick’s team came back from a 1-0 deficit to win the game 2-1 but the result was marred by the injury to 17-year-old prodigy Marc Bernal. The La Masia graduate who tore the ACL on his knee was ruled out for the next 12 months.

Subsequently, it emerged that Barcelona were planning to offer him a contract extension despite the injury. Recently, it was revealed that the club was planning to announce the renewal of the 17-year-old prodigy later this week.

Now, as per Diario AS, Barcelona have sealed the contract renewal for the player which will see him stay at the club until at least 2029. His release clause is also set to receive a massive bump from €20m to €500m.

It is clearly a sign of confidence and a gesture to boost the morale of a player who would be struggling with recovery. Bernal has a huge future in the game and Barcelona want to ensure he feels important despite his setback.

There was huge concern on how the club would replace Bernal in midfield following his injury but Marc Casado, with his performances, has ensured that Barcelona don’t miss the 17-year-old. The ex-Barca Athletic captain has been sublime in midfield.

Eric Garcia has been tasked with playing as the pivot in the past couple of games and against Getafe, he showcased a very impressive range of passing and looked sharp on the half-turn. Hansi Flick has managed to find solutions.

That said, fans and Flick alike would want Bernal back in the mix. They have to be cautious with him though and it remains to be seen how the German manages his defensive midfield options until the 17-year-old returns.