Barcelona midfield duo step up preparations ahead of pre-season with an eye on bigger roles

Barcelona midfield duo step up preparations ahead of pre-season with an eye on bigger roles FC Barcelona’s pre-season officially begins on Monday, July 13, but Fermin Lopez and Marc Bernal have already spent several days working at the Ciutat Esportiva , preparing for what promises to be a demanding campaign, reports Mundo Deportivo . Both midfielders have chosen to get a head start because they know the opening weeks of the season could shape many decisions, and that, apart from Pedri, no midfielder is guaranteed a starting place. Fierce competition in midfield Barcelona’s midfield is expected to be one of the squad’s most competitive areas. With Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, Marc Casado, Bernal, Dani Olmo, and Fermin all capable of offering different qualities, every training session will represent an opportunity to move up in Hansi Flick’s plans. Working hard ahead of pre-season. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Against that backdrop, both Fermin and Bernal are determined to arrive fully prepared from the very first day, demonstrating not only their quality but also their work ethic, commitment, and determination. Fermin focused on his recovery Fermin returns with an additional challenge after ending last season injured. Back in May, he suffered an unfortunate accidental blow that resulted in a fracture of the fifth metatarsal in his right foot, requiring him to undergo surgery. Missing out on the World Cup was a major disappointment, but throughout the summer the La Masia midfielder has focused entirely on his rehabilitation . His objective is to rejoin the squad in the best possible condition and regain his competitive rhythm as quickly as possible. The expectation is that he will be available when the official season begins. Aiming to convince Flick. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images) Bernal looking to build momentum For Bernal, this pre-season is equally significant. The young midfielder wants to leave his injury problems firmly behind and prove that he is physically ready to play an important role. Bernal ended last season strongly, producing several impressive performances, making 33 appearances and scoring five goals. He remains a player held in extremely high regard by Hansi Flick. He has advanced his physical preparation to ensure he arrives in peak condition for the start of collective training and is ready to compete for minutes from the very first session. Neither Fermin nor Bernal wants to wait for opportunities to come their way. Both players know the demands will be enormous and are already working hard at the training facilities to prove themselves to Flick.