FC Barcelona continues adjusting its squad for the future, and the midfield is once again in the spotlight. Although the midfield is one of the richest areas in talent, there is a position that continues to raise doubts. The defensive pivot needs a reliable and long-lasting owner for the coming years.
That figure hasn't been consolidated since Sergio Busquets's departure. Frenkie de Jong has taken on that role at various stages, but his natural profile doesn't fully match the demands of the position. Additionally, his contract renewal is at a standstill, and that only fuels the uncertainty.
A Position That Remains Unsolved
The Dutchman has been important this season, but he hasn't cleared the doubts about his future. His adaptation as a '5' has worked at times, but there is no guarantee of continuity. Meanwhile, the club is observing the market in search of a specific reinforcement for that position.
In parallel, Casadó has had opportunities from the reserve team, but he hasn't managed to establish himself in the first team. His progression has been affected by an injury and by the pressure of the environment. That's why Deco and the sports management have had to activate new alternatives.
For months, Joshua Kimmich was the absolute favorite to reinforce the pivot. His experience, quality, and leadership were ideal for taking a step up. However, his renewal with Bayern has definitively closed that door.
The other great option was Martín Zubimendi, but everything indicates that he will end up wearing white. Florentino Pérez is willing to pay his release clause and seal his signing at the end of the season. Another painful blow in the transfer market by the eternal rival.
A New Setback from Madrid
Zubimendi was always seen as the ideal replacement for Busquets. His tactical reading, calmness, and vision make him one of the most promising pivots in Europe. Barça bet strongly, but Real Madrid has acted with speed and determination.
From Barcelona, this move has been received with disappointment, but also with an immediate reaction. The board hasn't hesitated to put an alternative on the table that, although unexpected, is full of symbolism. And this time, the solution comes from within.
The club has decided to bet on one of its greatest youth gems. A midfielder who has already shown his quality and whom many compare to Busquets for his playing style. Although he is currently in the recovery process, the coaching staff has full confidence in him.
His name has been on the coaches' lips since the beginning of the season. Despite his young age, he has already debuted with the first team and has left very good impressions. His maturity with the ball, positioning, and anticipation ability are his main virtues.
The Chosen One
Yes, it's Marc Bernal, the pearl of La Masia who has captivated Hansi Flick and the sports area. At 17 years old, he is considered the natural heir to the '5' role at Barça. His stature, vision of the game, and calmness remind many of the best Busquets.
Currently, Bernal is working hard on his recovery after an injury that sidelined him for several months. The club's plan is for him to be in top form for the preseason of the next course. If all goes well, he will have a first-team spot and minutes from the start.
Far from entering auctions or making large expenditures, Barça has decided to look inward. Recovering the spirit of the academy, trusting in its own talent, and developing its stars from the ground up. Bernal represents that vision and is already preparing to take on the challenge.
With Zubimendi's signing by Real Madrid, Barça opts for its own long-term project. And although the comparison will be inevitable, time will tell who made the best decision. The truth is that, for many Barça fans, the bet on Bernal is also a symbolic victory.