Barcelona’s Champions League night took an unexpected turn when Eric Garcia was forced to leave the pitch after feeling dizzy, prompting him to ask for a substitution.
With the score at 0-1 and anxiety spreading through the team, the situation was far from comfortable.
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Into that demanding scenario stepped Marc Bernal, introduced at half-time and immediately thrown into one of his toughest tests since returning from injury.
The substitution was not planned, as Eric had been part of the team’s structure, and his withdrawal disrupted Barcelona’s balance.
Bernal was asked to play as a central midfielder, with the team needing control, calm, and a comeback.
Big shoes to fill
For a young pivot, the challenge was even greater due to the surrounding pieces.
This is because Pedri was unavailable, removing a natural partner who usually helps manage rhythm and possession, and Frenkie de Jong was suspended.
Marc Bernal was fantastic against Copenhagen. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
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Instead, Bernal found himself flanked by Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, two players whose instinct is to attack space and push forward rather than slow the game down.
In simple terms, Bernal had to organise Barcelona when most of those around him wanted to accelerate.
Repaying Flick’s faith
His first actions showed personality. Early in the second half, he tried his luck with a powerful shot from outside the box, forcing the Copenhagen goalkeeper into a save.
It was a small moment, but an important one, showing that the youngster was not hiding from responsibility.
Bernal finished the match with 36 interventions, completing 25 of his 30 passes and making three recoveries. He committed just one foul and was not dribbled past once.
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In a role where mistakes are often punished immediately, his sobriety and discipline stood out.
It must be noted that ever since his injury, Hansi Flick has been very cautious about his return, and after many cameos, Bernal has shown why the manager has been right in his approach.
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