Flick trusts Gavi and Marc Bernal for midfield

Hansi Flick has placed his confidence in Gavi and Marc Bernal to lead Barcelona’s midfield in the 2026/27 campaign. With Bernardo Silva expected to leave for Real Madrid, the German coach views the two youngsters as the core of the midfield rebuild. Gavi returned from a serious knee injury in March after surgery, regaining confidence and rhythm. He started the Champions League quarter‑final second leg against Atletico Madrid and was later called up by Spain for the World Cup. Manuel Velasquez captured Gavi’s return in a Getty Images photo. Marc Bernal, 19, overcame a long‑term knee problem and a late‑season ankle issue before featuring when Pedri and Frenkie de Jong were unavailable. At 1.93 metres, his physical presence and technical quality, plus an eye for goal, impressed the coaching staff. Alex Caparros provided a Getty Images image of Bernal’s pre‑season preparation. Flick’s message is that neither Gavi nor Bernal are merely backup options; he plans to give them prominent roles from day one of pre‑season, especially as Bernal can join the squad immediately.