‘We predict a great future’ – Marc Bernal hailed by Spain Under-21 boss after call-up

Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal has been rewarded for his resilience with a place in Spain’s Under-21 squad for the upcoming European Championship qualifiers against Cyprus and Kosovo, head coach David Gordo confirmed today.

Bernal, who has battled back from a serious injury, was included in the 23-man list despite speculation that he could be fast-tracked into the senior national set-up. Gordo singled out the 18-year-old for special praise after naming his squad.

“Marc has been through very tough circumstances with the injury,” Gordo said. “He has a quality that’s beyond doubt. He’s become an example to keep working and maintain a very high level. We predict a great future for him.”

The squad blends domestic talent with players plying their trade across Europe. Real Madrid goalkeeper Fran Martínez joins Atlético’s Esquivel and Valencia’s Vicente Abril between the posts, while the defensive unit features Sporting’s Fresneda, Bournemouth’s Jiménez and PSV’s Yarek.

In midfield, Bernal will link up with Stuttgart’s Chema Andrés, Celta’s Fer López and Racing Santander’s Peio Canales, among others. Up front, Betis forward Pablo García and Real Madrid’s Gonzalo provide firepower alongside Sunderland’s Mayenda and Málaga’s Adrián Niño.

Spain travel to Larnaca to face Cyprus on Friday 27 June before returning to Madrid to host Kosovo on Tuesday 31 June. Victory in both matches would boost La Rojita’s push toward next summer’s U-21 European Championship finals.