Barcelona HubMarc Bernal, the surprise in Spain's U21 squad
Barcelona confirms that its midfielder Marc Bernal has been included in David Gordo's Spain U21 call‑up for the fixtures against Norway (friendly) and Finland (qualifier) in October. The player, back from a long injury, already recorded an assist to Robert Lewandowski in LaLiga matchday 4 against Valencia.
Why does the call‑up matter?
The list is shaped by absences caused by the U20 World Cup in Chile. Players like Fran González (Real Madrid) and Rodrigo Mendoza (Elche) are missing because they are at the youth tournament. Hence, Bernal's presence, alongside other youngsters such as Bruno Iribarne (Almería) and Iván Fresneda (Sporting CP), gains special relevance for Barça's academy.
What does this mean for Barcelona?
Bernal's return to the first team and his selection for the U21 side reinforce the club's belief in his medium‑term potential. His assist against Valencia showed he is regaining rhythm quickly, which could translate into more minutes under Xavi Hernández. Moreover, his international exposure raises his market value.
Call‑up details
| Position | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Astralaga | Granada |
| Salvi Esquivel | Atlético de Madrid | |
| Bruno Iribarne | Almería | |
| Defenders | Iván Fresneda | Sporting CP |
| Álex Jiménez | Bournemouth | |
| Mosquera | Arsenal | |
| Simo Keddari | Al‑Arabi | |
| Jacobo Ramón | Como 1907 | |
| Álex Valle | Como 1907 | |
| Yarek | PSV | |
| Rafa Obrador | Benfica | |
| Midfielders | Marc Bernal | FC Barcelona |
| Mario Martín | Getafe | |
| Chema Andrés | Stuttgart | |
| Miguel Carvalho | Al‑Hazem | |
| Gerard Hernández | Al‑Arabi | |
| Pau Prim | Al‑Sadd | |
| Forwards | Ángel Ortiz | Real Betis |
| Eliezer Mayenda | Sunderland | |
| Sergio Rodelas | Granada | |
| Matías Fernández‑Pardo | Lille | |
| Gonzalo García | Real Madrid | |
| Marc Guiu | Chelsea |
The matches are set for October 10 at Pedro Escartín in Guadalajara (21:00) and October 14 at Castalia Stadium in Castellón (18:30). Bernal's participation will be closely watched by Barça fans, who hope his good form continues.
What lies ahead for the U21 side?
Facing Norway first, the squad will aim to solidify its play before taking on Finland in the qualifying round for Euro 2027. The absence of several players due to the U20 World Cup opens doors for emerging talents like Bernal, who could become key figures for the senior national team.
