English
Español
The absence of Frenkie de Jong continues to test Hansi Flick, but Barcelona’s 4-1 victory over Villarreal offered a clear sign that solutions are already inside the squad.
Instead of disturbing the entire system, Flick trusted the youth, and the response was encouraging.
For 67 minutes, Marc Bernal operated as the team’s holding midfielder, the classic ‘6’ role usually occupied by De Jong.
And when Bernal left the pitch, Eric Garcia moved into that same position, showing that Flick has two alternatives depending on the game state.
Bernal’s task was demanding. He had to connect play between Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, maintain defensive balance and stop Villarreal’s quick transitions.
The teenager handled that responsibility with maturity beyond his age.
A great performance under pressure
In just 67 minutes, Bernal recorded 66 interventions. He completed 90% of his passes, most of them short and first-time touches designed to keep the rhythm high and reduce risk.
Marc Bernal was fantastic against Villarreal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
That efficiency helped Barcelona control possession during key phases.
Notably, he was shown a yellow card in the 53rd minute after committing a tactical foul to halt a dangerous Villarreal counterattack.
Beyond the numbers, the tactical impression was strong, as Bernal kept his positioning disciplined and avoided unnecessary forward runs.
In defence, he tracked runners and stayed alert against transitions. In attack, he prioritised circulation over unnecessary theatrics.
This was his third start of the season, and although he has not yet completed a full 90 minutes, this 67-minute display stands as his most convincing performance so far.
The midfielder is clearly growing in confidence and for now, Barcelona look stable even without De Jong.
If Bernal continues at this level, the gap left by the Dutch international may turn into an opportunity for a new midfield leader to emerge.