Barcelona Locks Down Rising La Masia Sensation with Major Contract Extension

Barcelona confirmed on Monday that academy graduate Marc Bernal has committed to a four-year contract extension, securing his future at the club until 2029.

The fresh agreement reportedly features a €500 million ($587.2 million) buyout clause.

Bernal, 18, progressed through Barcelona's youth system after initially joining in 2014. The Spanish holding midfielder earned his La Liga debut in August 2024 under manager Hansi Flick, but suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his left knee later that month, sidelining him for the remainder of the campaign. Overall, Bernal managed only three appearances in Spain's premier division.

Following his return against Valencia on Sept. 14 in a brief substitute appearance, Bernal has featured twice while being included in every matchday roster across all competitions.

Bernal: The Happiest Day of My Life

"This is the happiest day of my life. If someone had told me this would happen two years ago, I wouldn't have believed them. Every child dreams of this moment since they're young. I have achieved my dream," Bernal expressed in the club's official statement.

The promising holding midfielder has been identified as a potential heir to club icon Sergio Busquets. Bernal even acknowledged Busquets as one of his inspirations: "Sergio Busquets serves as a role model for me, one of my heroes. When I suffered my injury, he reached out with a message, which truly meant a lot to me."

Chelsea had allegedly shown interest in pursuing Bernal during the summer transfer window. However, Bernal personally declined the opportunity, expressing his commitment to staying at Barcelona. The London club had also targeted another Barcelona prospect, Fermín López, though no deal came to fruition.

The Bernal contract extension follows recent months where the defending La Liga titleholders also secured new agreements with Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and manager Hansi Flick.