Barcelona paid a heavy price for their 2-1 comeback victory against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga’s third round of the 2024/25 season, as young star Marc Bernal suffered a serious injury.
The 17-year-old sustained a severe injury late in the match after a strong collision with Rayo’s Isi Palazon. Initial examinations revealed that Bernal tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
Bernal was unable to finish the game and had to be helped off the field by the medical staff during stoppage time. Earlier, while attempting a tackle in midfield, Bernal collided with Palazon’s leg, causing the knee injury. After the match, Bernal left the Vallecas stadium on crutches, accompanied by Barcelona President Joan Laporta, who couldn’t hide his concern over the young player’s severe injury.
It’s still too early to determine the full extent of the injury, but both coach Hansi Flick and the dressing room are aware that Bernal might be sidelined for an extended period. If the injury is confirmed as an ACL tear, Bernal could be out for the rest of the season.
This would be a significant loss for Barcelona in a challenging season with a packed schedule. Additionally, Bernal is a key part of Flick’s long-term plans. The coach couldn’t conceal his disappointment at Bernal’s injury, saying, “This is a bittersweet victory because of Marc’s injury. He doesn’t seem to be in good shape. We’ll have to wait a few days to see the full picture after further tests. No one in the dressing room is in high spirits because of Marc’s injury.”
Furthermore, Pedri also suffered some scrapes after a collision, but Flick confirmed that the Spanish midfielder isn’t seriously injured and will soon return to regular training.