Marc Bernal admits Rodri’s arrival makes Barcelona midfield competition tougher: ‘When you sign a Ballon d’Or winner…’

Marc Bernal admits Rodri’s arrival makes Barcelona midfield competition tougher: ‘When you sign a Ballon d’Or winner…’ Speaking in an interview with Catalunya Radio , Marc Bernal has acknowledged that competing for a place in Barcelona midfield has become considerably more difficult due to the arrival of a Ballon d’Or winner like Rodri. The 19-year-old, who returned to the starting line-up against Atletico Madrid after Rodri’s injury, described the Manchester City midfielder as the best player in the world in his position. Bernal admits competition for places is tough Bernal is currently away with the Spain U21 squad after being called up by manager David Gordo as they play two friendly matches against Japan and Albania. Taking time to speak to Catalunya Radio during the international camp, the La Masia graduate spoke about the intense competition for places in the Barcelona midfield department. “In the end, I think when you sign a Ballon d’Or winner, it’s harder to break into the team and play because, for me, you have the best player in the world in that position,” he said. “Now it’s my turn to play because of his injury, and I’m happy with how the manager has handled it,” Bernal added. Rodri’s arrival has limited Bernal’s minutes. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Talking about how he reacted after learning about Rodri’s signing during the summer transfer window, he explained: “When I found out, I knew and was aware of the club I’m at. At Barça, the competition is what it is, and it’s healthy because we compete for everything. “When it became official, the manager, Deco, and the board all reassured me because the season is very long and there are minutes for everyone. I’m 19 years old, and the season is very long.” Despite the competition, Bernal has no doubts about staying at Barcelona and admitted that if it were up to him, he would sign the renewal now . “My idea is always to stay here. My agent is handling the renewal, and I hope to sign it as soon as possible,”  he said. On his preferred position and areas for improvement During the interview, Bernal also openly discussed the areas of his game that he still needed to improve, despite having made some major improvements since Hansi Flick took over. “I can still improve in many aspects. Defensively, I need to take a step forward. I’ve improved since last season, but I have room for improvement and I have time,” he said. “I’m only 19 years old. I have to show that I can play in big matches like the one at the Metropolitano against Atletico Madrid.” On his preferred position on the pitch, Bernal added: “I prefer defensive midfield, but I also like playing as an interior midfielder, as a number 8, and I’ve had some minutes there this year. They’re different roles.” Bernal has the full confidence of Flick. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) However, he dismissed the possibility of a centre-back, saying: “Ugh, I don’t think I’ve ever played centre-back, and I think it would be difficult. But I can’t say more because I haven’t tried it.” On the team’s form Bernal, who started in the win against Atletico Madrid over the weekend, also reflected on Barcelona’s form this season. “I’m happy with how the match ended at the Metropolitano. It was very important, and we in the dressing room felt that way too. It was one of those matches that leaves you very satisfied,” he said. Regarding Barcelona’s title aspirations and how Real Madrid will pose a tough challenge, Bernal added: “I think we’re at the beginning of the season, and it’s true that Real Madrid is getting better and better. But we know that if we play to our potential and do what we need to do, we can win La Liga. “There was no doubt after the two consecutive defeats. It was tough, but we were able to win on Sunday, and we’re happy about that.”