The meeting between Deco and Marc Bernal changes everything: 'one of the two will have to leave'

Barça fans are very eager to see Marc Bernal in action on a regular basis. The young talent raised in La Masia dazzled everyone last season when Flick allowed him to make his debut with the first team. From that moment on, many have pointed to him as a midfielder for the ages, one of those who understand the game with a calmness unusual for his age.

However, his progression came to an abrupt halt because of a serious knee injury. Since the fall of 2024, Marc Bernal has been immersed in a long recovery process that has stretched to this day. At Barça they know that this type of injury is not only healed with medical clearance, but also with patience and a measured return.

It is true that Marc Bernal has had medical clearance for months and that he has already played minutes in several matches. But Flick doesn't want to take risks, because a relapse would be the worst possible scenario for a footballer who is still building his body. That's why the German coach's plan has been clear:for the moment he will only play in favorable contexts, with the match under control or against opponents who allow efforts to be managed.

That criterion was seen in the last match against Racing. At El Sardinero, Marc Bernal appeared in the starting line-up and left a very good impression, especially with the ball at his feet, showing a great ability to receive and turn without losing control. At a tactical level, he also looked more comfortable, occupying the zone well and keeping correct distances with the center-backs.

Casadó also asks for a place

However, his partner in midfield, Casadó, delivered an even more outstanding performance than Marc Bernal's. The "17" brought more energy in the press, more aggressiveness in winning the ball back, and more continuity in his box-to-box play. In such a demanding match he excelled because he read the tempo of the clash better and held the team together when Racing pushed.

There lies the problem, and also Barça's dilemma:Marc Bernal and Casadó find themselves in a similar situation within the culé project. It is logical to think that keeping both as important pieces is very difficult if neither accepts being fourth or fifth in the rotation. And precisely for that reason the conversation in the last few hours has changed the script.

The meeting between Deco and Marc Bernal changes everything: "One of the two will have to leave"

After the match against Racing, Deco held a meeting with Marc Bernal to speak frankly about what is coming. The message, according to what has been suggested from his camp, was forceful:"One of the two will have to leave". It is clear that Bernal and Casadó are not compatible in the long term.

Girona like Marc Bernal a lot, while Casadó has attracted the attention of Atlético de Madrid. Deco is in favor of the departure of one of the two, bearing in mind that Pedri and Frenkie are untouchable in midfield. The final decision will depend on several factors.