280 goals in 286 matches – Barcelona midfield sensation’s incredible record in youth football

The 2024/25 season is proving to be a significant one for Marc Bernal. The young midfielder is gradually cementing his place in Barcelona’s first team, even though he might not yet be a household name. 

However, for those familiar with Barça’s youth academy, Bernal’s talent has been evident for years.

Marc Bernal joined Barcelona in the summer of 2014 as a midfielder, having shown great potential at a young age. Over the past decade, he has primarily played in wide areas, yet his statistics are more akin to those of a prolific forward. 

Despite his midfield role, Bernal’s knack for scoring has been remarkable, showcasing his physical and technical prowess.

Bernal’s knack of scoring

When Bernal first arrived at Barça, he was already the top scorer for Gimnastic de Manresa’s Prebenjamin A team. 

He continued this trend in Barcelona’s youth teams, playing 28 matches and scoring 58 goals in the under-8 team. His impressive average of 2.07 goals per game was unusual for a midfielder.

As he progressed through the ranks, Bernal’s scoring ability remained consistent. In the Benjamin C team during the 2015-16 season, he played 29 matches, starting every game, and scored 50 goals. 

In his third season with Barça’s 7-a-side teams, he was coached by Jordi Font in the Benjamin A squad, where he scored 39 goals in 35 matches, maintaining an impressive goals-per-game ratio.

Moving up to the U12 category, Bernal’s scoring did not wane. He continued to find the back of the net frequently, scoring 46 goals in 30 games with U12 C and 50 goals in 31 games with U12.

In his first five seasons with Barcelona’s youth setup, Bernal excelled in the 7-a-side format, scoring 243 goals in 153 matches. 

The post-COVID era

His transition to 11-a-side football between the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons was challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited his playtime. Nonetheless, he adapted well, although his scoring average dropped due to fewer opportunities.

His performance between 2021 and 2013 included 28 matches with 11 goals in Cadet B and 12 goals in 28 matches with Cadet A, proving his resilience and versatility.

Bernal’s journey through Barcelona’s youth academy culminated in his promotion to Barça Atletic. Impressing his coaches with his skills, he played 35 matches, making 31 starts. 

Though his goal-scoring reduced due to his deeper role as a central midfielder, Bernal’s impact remained significant. He also contributed in the Youth League, playing five matches and scoring once.

Over his ten years at Barcelona’s academy, Bernal has played 286 matches and scored 280 goals, averaging nearly one goal per game. 

His achievements highlight not just his scoring ability but his adaptability and commitment to the game. As he continues to develop, Bernal looks set to make a significant impact at the senior level for Barcelona.

Source: SPORT