Marc Bernal welcomes Rodri competition as Barcelona midfielder targets long-term future

Marc Bernal says Rodri’s arrival has made competition for a place in Barcelona’s midfield more difficult, but insists he remains confident of establishing himself under manager Hansi Flick.

The 19-year-old midfielder has made 577 minutes this season, benefiting from a series of opportunities from Flick. Bernal started alongside Pedri in Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano, producing an impressive display before being substituted after 74 minutes when he had been booked.

Flick also introduced Bernal at half-time against Aston Villa in place of Rodri, while the youngster started against Paris Saint-Germain. He played for 60 minutes in that match and came up against one of his idols, Portugal international Vitinha.

Speaking to Catalonia radio programme Tot Costa on Tuesday, Bernal said he feels most comfortable as a midfielder but is also capable of playing as a number eight. That role gives him greater freedom to make runs into the penalty area and score than a deeper holding position.

Bernal identified Sergio Busquets as his main role model, alongside Vitinha, whom he described as a different type of player with exceptional technical ability.

He was particularly pleased with the way Barcelona left the Metropolitano after beating Atletico Madrid, saying the result was hugely important because it came in a direct contest at the top of the league. He added that the match had been extremely demanding, with the players still feeling its effect in the dressing room.

Bernal believes Barcelona can challenge for the title, while acknowledging that Real Madrid are improving.

“We are at the beginning of the league, and Real Madrid are constantly improving. They do not drop many points, but if we do our job and play in the way required, we can win the league,” he said, according to Sport.

He added that Barcelona’s main ambition was to win the Champions League, pointing to the quality within the squad and the confidence the club gives its players. He said the team must fight to win every match.

Rodri’s arrival has not changed Bernal’s outlook, although he admitted that competing with a player who has won the Ballon d’Or would make securing a starting place more difficult. He said he was satisfied with the way Flick had handled the situation and regarded the competition as healthy.

Bernal also praised Rodri’s leadership in the dressing room and his willingness to help team-mates, describing him as another role model alongside Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Gavi.

He said Flick, sporting director Deco and Barcelona’s board reassured him after Rodri’s signing was officially announced. They told him the season was long and that there would be opportunities for everyone.

Bernal intends to remain at Barcelona for many years. Preparations are under way for a contract extension until 2031, which he hopes to sign soon, although he said the matter is currently in the hands of his agent.

He identified defensive improvement as an area of weakness despite the progress he has made, adding that major matches provide an opportunity to prove his ability.

Bernal is currently with Spain Under-21s during the international break after being selected by David Gordo. He said he is not in a hurry with his career.