Marc Bernal has emerged as a key figure for FC Barcelona in recent weeks, displaying his best form and impressing with his goalscoring ability. Following his call-up to the U21 squad, the midfielder gave an interview to 'Sport'.

Discussing his U21 debut, Bernal said: "I'm absolutely thrilled; it was a truly special moment. My family told me; they sent me the call-up on my phone."

On the senior national team, he added: "Yes, yes, it also surprised me when they told me I was on the provisional list for the senior squad. It's a positive thing, a sign you're doing things well, and a source of great pride."

Marc Bernal also recalled the difficult period of his injury: "It was a long and very tough process, especially mentally, getting back to the same level I was at before the injury. Now, playing, the matches at Camp Nou... it's a source of immense pride. All the work behind the scenes, which perhaps goes unseen during the injury and especially afterwards, has paid off; it's a reward," he added.

"Well, you think about it a lot at the beginning; that's when you're most down, especially mentally. Many thoughts run through your mind, that you won't be able to be the same, that things won't be like before. But there are those people who help you, who know what they're talking about – the rehabilitation specialists, the daily staff, the physios. They've helped me a lot," he continued.

Recalling the toughest moments, Bernal stated: "I remember during the match, when I was on the ground, I couldn't even get up. After the operation, I couldn't even put on a sock, or get out of bed by myself. That was the toughest part."

Dreams of Champions League glory

There's no doubt that the Champions League remains one of FC Barcelona's biggest obsessions. As Marc Bernal explains: "Yes, in the match against Newcastle, we showed who we are, our style of play. The whole team, the entire group, we're confident we can win the Champions League."

"The Champions League, without a doubt. I already won La Liga last year... Winning the Champions League would be absolutely crazy," he continued.

On the prospect of revenge against Atleti: "Yes. Well, you always feel eager and have that lingering regret about not reaching the Copa del Rey final. It's an opportunity to seize and prove ourselves in the Champions League."

La Liga and the 'Clasico'

Bernal on the May 'Clasico': "I played several in youth football, and the 'Clasicos' are matches where you go all out, leaving everything on the pitch in every play. I have that lingering desire to play in a professional 'Clasico'. I'm really looking forward to it, honestly."

Despite receiving offers, Bernal never hesitated: "From the beginning, I was clear I wanted to stay. I've been here for many years; it's the club of my life, and I've made the right decision. The moments I'm experiencing now, I wouldn't have experienced anywhere else. And any titles we might win, they feel unique here."

On his contract renewal, Bernal confirmed: "Yes. If it were up to me, absolutely. And it's true, as you say, the moment I got injured, I was in the hospital, and they offered me the contract. That was a show of support from the club that meant a lot to me."

Bernal isn't afraid of competition: "When you're in the first team of FC Barcelona, the best club in the world, the competition is exactly what it should be. We have the best players here; our group goes beyond mere competition, and ultimately, the manager makes those decisions. I have a very good relationship with Frenkie and everyone else. I felt a lot of affection and appreciation from my teammates."

Finally, Marc Bernal addressed the comparisons drawn between him and Sergio Busquets: "Firstly, yes, I have spoken with him. When I got injured, he sent me a message, and it surprised me. It speaks volumes about the person he is. It was very significant for me; he's a player I've always admired since I was little, an idol. I believe everyone has their own way of being, their own career. Andres Iniesta's messages also really impacted me."

Marc Bernal

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