Barcelona exercises extreme caution as Marc Bernal’s availability for Celta Vigo remains in doubt

Barcelona's Marc Bernal remains out of group training ahead of the Celta Vigo match. Hansi Flick refuses to risk the star midfielder's left ankle recovery.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 8:50 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Sport

Extended Absence from Group Training

The tactical planning for Barcelona’s Matchday 33 encounter at Spotify Camp Nou has been clouded by the ongoing absence of Marc Bernal. As of Monday, April 20, 2026, the teenage midfielder has yet to rejoin his teammates for full-speed drills, remaining confined to the gymnasium and isolated pitch work. While the initial medical prognosis suggested a ten-day recovery period, the actual timeline has now exceeded two weeks, reflecting the technical staff’s commitment to a zero-risk policy for the academy graduate.

Injury Context and Technical Caution

The injury occurred during a high-intensity challenge in the recent league victory over Atlético Madrid, resulting in a sprained left ankle. Hansi Flick and the Barcelona medical department have opted for a conservative approach, particularly given Bernal’s history of overcoming a long-term ACL injury earlier in his career. In a clear sign of this caution, Bernal was omitted from the matchday squad for the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atlético, despite traveling with the team, as Flick prioritized the player's long-term health over immediate tactical needs.

Flick’s Defensive Insurance Policy

Coach Hansi Flick has repeatedly emphasized that Bernal is an "essential player" for the final stretch of the season as Barcelona looks to formalize its claim on the La Liga title. With the team holding a significant lead over Real Madrid, Flick feels he has the luxury of time to ensure Bernal is at 100 percent physical capacity before reintegrating him. In the interim, the coaching staff has relied on the experience of Frenkie de Jong and the versatility of Eric García to maintain the structural integrity of the midfield pivot.