Barcelona’s Defensive Puzzle: Hansi Flick Rules Marc Bernal Out of Left Centre-Back Role
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has dismissed Marc Bernal as a potential solution at left centre-back, saying the young midfielder should continue developing in his natural position. The decision comes as Barça prepare for a demanding run of fixtures, beginning with a difficult LaLiga meeting against Getafe.
With injuries and a crowded schedule shaping selection decisions, Flick was asked whether he might use players in unfamiliar roles to strengthen his defence. While he confirmed that Frenkie de Jong could be considered at centre-back, he made clear that Bernal is not part of that plan. His comments offer a glimpse into Barcelona’s defensive options—and the careful balance Flick is trying to strike between short-term needs and long-term player development.
Flick focused on the next match, not the full fixture list
Barcelona face a busy period after the international break, with five important matches on the horizon. Flick acknowledged that returning to club football after time away can be challenging, but said the break is part of the job and cannot be changed.
Rather than looking too far ahead or promising widespread rotation, the coach stressed that his attention is on Getafe. He expects a demanding contest against an opponent whose style can make life uncomfortable for Barça. That approach reflects Flick’s familiar emphasis on preparing for the immediate challenge instead of allowing future fixtures to distract the squad.
For supporters considering a football prediction for the match, Getafe’s reputation for making games difficult is an important factor. Barcelona may have greater attacking quality, but they will need patience, concentration and intensity to turn possession into clear chances.
De Jong could offer another centre-back option
Flick confirmed that De Jong is capable of playing in central defence, giving Barcelona another possible solution if circumstances require it. The Dutch international’s comfort on the ball and ability to read play could make him useful in that role, although his availability remains a separate question.
The coach said De Jong is progressing well and is no longer experiencing pain, but cautioned that he still needs time. A return against Real Betis may be possible, though Flick did not present it as certain. The priority, he indicated, is to bring the midfielder back when he is ready rather than rush him into action.
De Jong’s potential versatility could be valuable during a congested schedule, particularly if Barça need to manage injuries or protect players from an excessive workload. However, moving a midfielder into defence can also affect the balance of the team, so the decision would depend on the available personnel and the demands of the match.
Why Bernal will remain in his preferred position
Although Bernal has occasionally trained at left centre-back, Flick does not view the role as a realistic option for him. The coach said the teenager is better served by continuing to play in his natural position, where he can build confidence, improve his understanding of the game and make the most of his talent.
That stance is significant because young players are often asked to cover unfamiliar roles when a squad is short of defenders. Flick’s comments suggest he would rather avoid using Bernal as a temporary fix, even if the midfielder has shown some adaptability in training. Instead, Barcelona appear intent on giving him a clear development pathway.
Bernal has produced encouraging performances in recent matches, and keeping him in a familiar role may help him maintain that progress. For a player still establishing himself at senior level, consistent responsibilities can be more valuable than being moved around to solve short-term problems.
Joan García is in contention to start
Flick also discussed Barcelona’s goalkeeping options, naming Marc-André ter Stegen and Wojciech Szczęsny as possibilities. However, he indicated that Joan García is in a strong position after his recent work and could start against Getafe.
The decision will be closely watched as Barça assess how best to manage their goalkeeping department. A starting place for García would represent a show of confidence from Flick, while the presence of experienced alternatives gives the coach flexibility. The final selection may depend on training, match readiness and the tactical demands of the fixture.
Competition at left-back and the value of La Masia
Flick welcomed the competition for places at left-back, saying Barcelona have options across the position and expect every player to perform at a high level. He described the intensity in training as encouraging, adding that players understand they must give their best if they want to retain their place.
The coach also praised the club’s ability to develop young talent, highlighting Espart, a La Masia player who is set to remain with Barcelona for the next four years. His presence reflects the club’s wider strategy of combining established professionals with academy graduates who can grow into first-team roles.
Strong competition can help raise standards across the squad, particularly during a long season when injuries, form and fatigue can quickly change the pecking order. For Flick, having reliable alternatives is not simply a matter of filling the bench; it is a way to maintain intensity throughout the team.
Flick backs Lamine Yamal’s remarkable rise
Flick ended his media briefing by praising Lamine Yamal, whose performances for both Barcelona and Spain have drawn increasing attention. The coach described the teenager’s level as exceptional and said he had watched him play in London, where he was impressed by what he saw.
At the same time, Flick acknowledged the importance of managing a young player’s workload. Yamal wants to play every minute because he loves football, but the coach suggested that appearances of 60 or 70 minutes can sometimes be beneficial. Younger players may recover quickly, yet careful management remains essential across a season filled with domestic and international commitments.
Flick believes Yamal is already among the game’s leading talents and could become the world’s best player if he continues to improve with the same mentality. That praise is ambitious, but it comes with an expectation: continued development, discipline and a willingness to keep learning.
Barcelona’s selection decisions will shape the Getafe test
Flick’s comments point to a measured approach as Barcelona return to action. De Jong may eventually add flexibility at centre-back, García is pushing for a starting place, and Bernal is expected to keep developing in his preferred position. Meanwhile, competition at left-back and careful management of Yamal underline the importance of squad depth.
Against Getafe, Barça will need to translate that preparation into a focused performance. The coach’s message is clear: the fixture list may be demanding, but the next match remains the priority. How Barcelona handle Getafe’s challenge could provide an early indication of whether Flick’s squad has the balance and resilience required for the busy weeks ahead.
