Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal described scoring his first goal for the club as an “incredible moment” and the fulfillment of a childhood dream after marking his injury comeback with a strike in Saturday’s 3-0 win over Mallorca.
Marc Bernal Marks Barcelona Return With Emotional First Goal
The 18-year-old came off the bench to seal the victory at Estadi OlÃmpic LluÃs Companys, adding a late third goal after Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal had already secured the points. The result extended Barcelona’s lead at the La Liga summit to four points.
For Bernal, the goal capped a challenging year. He suffered a torn ACL in just his third senior appearance back in 2024 and only returned to action at the end of September.
Coach Hansi Flick has carefully managed his minutes since.
“It was very special to score my first goal for Barcelona,” Bernal said.
“I saw the space, ran into it, and after a cut-back, it went in. It took a deflection, but never mind.
It’s something you can hardly even imagine as a dream when you’re a kid.”
He added that upon scoring, he immediately reflected on the difficult rehabilitation period and the support of his family.
Flick and the entire Barcelona bench erupted in celebration for the young talent. “For him, it was amazing, scoring his first goal here,” Flick stated.
“He did really well. It is the next step for him to come back on the highest level.”
Bernal acknowledges his gradual reintegration, featuring in the last six matches.
“From the start, I knew it would be a process from less to more,” he said.
“I am in good shape now and taking advantage of the minutes.”
The joyous moment for Bernal contrasted with Flick’s dissatisfaction with the team’s slow first-half performance, promising a sharper start in their upcoming Copa del Rey semifinal against Atlético Madrid.
However, the day ultimately belonged to a teenager whose perseverance turned a long-held dream into reality.
