FC Barcelona and rising star midfielder Marc Bernal have agreed to a contract adjustment, confirming his buyout clause at a staggering €500 million. The updated deal binds the 17-year-old until 30 June 2026 when his U-19 status ends, with an option to extend through 2029.
Bernal, a La Masia product, had impressed in the opening matches of the season and made senior team appearances under manager Hansi Flick. He made his debut for Barça in the La Liga opener versus Valencia and also played in matches against Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano.
However, in a match against Rayo Vallecano, Bernal ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee and sustained an injury to his external meniscus, ruling him out for a lengthy recovery period. Despite this setback, Barcelona has shown clear faith in his potential.
The club’s statement described Bernal as a “fabulous investment for the future,” reflecting confidence that he will return stronger once fully recovered. The contract’s extension option to 2029 adds security.
Sources indicate that as of mid-2025, Bernal is in the “final phase” of his recovery, with plans to integrate him into first-team training ahead of the new season.
The scope of the €500 million release clause underscores Barcelona’s belief in protecting his long-term future and deterring interested clubs. While such clauses are largely symbolic — almost no club may meet them — they reinforce Bernal’s status as a prized young talent.
For now, his future remains bright but grounded in reality: he’s under contract until 2026, recovering from injury, and expects further time to fully return. But Barcelona’s move sends a clear message: they see Bernal as part of the club’s core for years to come.
Africa Digital News, New York
