Barcelona Injury Update: Gerard Martín Nears Return While Marc Bernal Remains Sidelined
As FC Barcelona prepares for a high-stakes UEFA Champions League showdown against Atletico Madrid, the medical staff is managing a delicate balancing act. The latest reports from the Ciutat Esportiva reveal a tale of two timelines: one player on the verge of a quick return and another still battling back from a significant setback.
The primary focus for manager Hansi Flick is the status of Gerard Martín. The full-back became a point of concern for the Blaugrana faithful on Saturday after he was forced to depart the pitch at halftime during the Catalonia derby against Espanyol. While a halftime substitution in a derby often signals trouble, the reality is far less dire.
According to club reports and confirmation from the coaching staff, Martín’s exit was a precautionary measure following discomfort in his right ankle. The injury was described as the result of a fortuitous poor gesture rather than a structural tear or break. Flick has remained publicly optimistic, stating, “I think it’s not a serious injury. I think he can play on Tuesday.”
To ensure he is fit for the trip to Madrid, Martín spent Sunday’s recovery session working separately in the gym. This targeted approach was designed to reduce the load on his legs while maintaining cardiovascular fitness. The plan is for the defender to rejoin group training during the final session before travel. If the recovery continues on this trajectory, Martín is expected to be available—and potentially start—in the clash at the Metropolitano.
While the news surrounding Martín is encouraging, the situation for Marc Bernal is more static. Bernal continues to be absent from group training as he recovers from a left ankle sprain suffered on April 4 during the first leg against Atletico Madrid.
The medical diagnosis for Bernal carried a 10-day recovery window. As that window does not close until Wednesday, he is officially out of the picture for Tuesday’s return leg. For Flick, this means a confirmed vacancy in the midfield that must be filled as Barcelona attempts to overturn their first-leg deficit to secure a spot in the Champions League semifinals.
Beyond the ankle injuries, there is a silver lining regarding the squad’s depth. Frenkie de Jong is showing signs of returning to full match fitness. After playing only the final seven minutes of the 4-1 victory over Espanyol—during which he provided the assist for the final goal scored by Marcus Rashford—de Jong increased his intensity during Sunday’s training.
Flick has indicated that while De Jong may not be ready for a full 90 minutes, he is expected to be available for 45 to 60 minutes of action. This provides a critical tactical pivot for the coach in a match where controlling the tempo against Simeone’s side will be paramount.
The mood at the club remains calm, with several key players focusing on mental preparation. Following the recovery session, Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, and Ronald Araujo visited the Estadi Johan Cruyff to support the reserve team. They watched as Barça Atlètic secured a 3-1 victory over Espanyol B in the Segunda RFEF, a small but positive note of internal cohesion before the team departs for Spain’s capital.
For those following the tactical implications, the availability of Gerard Martín is a significant boost. His ability to provide width and defensive stability allows Flick more flexibility in how he deploys his wing-backs against an Atletico side known for its disciplined defensive blocks.
The definitive word on Martín’s starting status will come following Monday’s training session, which is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (18:00) local time at the Metropolitano. That session will serve as the final litmus test for his ankle before the Tuesday kickoff.
Player Availability Snapshot
| Player | Injury | Status for Tuesday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gerard Martín | Right Ankle (Discomfort) | Probable | Precautionary gym work; expected to join group training Monday. |
| Marc Bernal | Left Ankle (Sprain) | Out | 10-day recovery period ends Wednesday. |
| Frenkie de Jong | Returning from Fitness | Available (Limited) | Expected to play 45-60 minutes. |
Barcelona now faces a daunting task in Madrid. With the pressure of a semifinal berth on the line, the fitness of the squad—particularly the return of a functional De Jong and the potential availability of Martín—will be the deciding factors in whether they can overcome the first-leg result.
The next confirmed checkpoint is the final training session at the Metropolitano on Monday, April 13, where the final matchday squad will be determined.
What do you think of Flick’s decision to manage Gerard Martín’s minutes? Let us know in the comments below.
