Bernal Bravely Battles Illness to Protect Flick's Plan Against Bilbao
9 March 2026
Matchday Courage: Bernal's Return in Basque Country
Will he play against Newcastle United?
One of Barcelona's standout players delivered an impressively dedicated performance during the clash with Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés in La Liga.
That commitment came as he insisted on starting despite illness, showing a humane side toward a Bilbao teammate's injury.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Marc Bernal arrived at the Basque club's fortress after starting three consecutive matches, following months of grinding to regain his best form.
The promising youngster, who had four goals in six appearances, felt his importance again and refused to cede his place, prompting Hans Flick to name him in the starting XI again alongside Casado, with Pedri out.
Bernal suffered stomach pains before the kick-off, vomiting twice, but he refused to be deterred and stayed true to Flick's rotation plan.
He told his coach he was ready to be used, and delivered a solid performance marked by discipline, technique, and strength, before being substituted at half-time.
The German boss later said the player had no muscular issues and would be available for the next match against Newcastle United.
During the match, Bernal delivered a indirect impact in Unai Gómez's injury when the Bilbao forward clashed for the ball and landed awkwardly after Bernal challenged.
Realizing the danger, Bernal cleared the ball to a throw-in so Gómez could receive treatment, recalling the anxious moments he himself endured last season.
Bilbao's doctors treated Gómez and then substituted him; early indicators suggested the injury might not be serious, while Bernal checked on his teammate's progress after the game and planned to call him ahead of the trip to England.
Read also: Flick ties his future with Barcelona to one condition.
Punchline 1: If nerves were goals, Bernal would have a hat-trick by now.
Punchline 2: Flick's rotation is so relentless even the calendar's taking notes.
