Bernal: Rodri stays patient on the ball even under pressure, and that's what I focus on most

In the fourth round of the Champions League league phase, Barcelona beat Aston Villa 3-0 at home. Yamal scored once and Raphinha twice. After the match, Bernal spoke to TNT Sports Mexico, offering his condolences to the family of Jesús de Miguel and discussing the victory, the competition in midfield, and learning from Rodri.

Friends of TNT Sports, we are here at Camp Nou with Marc Bernal, one of the protagonists of today's match. This was an important game, especially given your recent run in the Champions League: the painful defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in Paris, and then what happened in El Clásico. How much did you need a win like this, with a performance like this in front of your home fans, to turn the page and focus on the matches ahead?

First, I want to say a few words for Jesús de Miguel, and send my support to his loved ones and family. All athletes and all footballers are with him, and I want to send them strength.

As for the match, I think this victory is a big help for us. Winning this Champions League game puts us back in the fight. We have a very difficult match coming up against Atletico Madrid, and this win will help us build confidence.

Against an Aston Villa side that is always tough, why do you think Barcelona were able to win this match?

I think we played a very complete game, both with and without the ball. Keeping another clean sheet is also positive, because it reflects well on our pressing and on the kind of team we are. I am very happy with this win.

Do you enjoy the competition in midfield? It's a good thing, isn't it? With so many excellent players here, you have to be at your best. Do you like this kind of daily competition?

Yes, of course. We train every day with the best players. Most importantly, the competition is healthy, and we have a fantastic squad. We also hope the coach can rotate appropriately and so on. I am very happy with the group we have.

When it was announced that Rodri was coming here, given his standing in your position, many people said: "There will be a lot of competition here, and one will overshadow the other." But I don't think so; I think he can also bring you something. For a player like Rodri, in the midfield role where you often play, what do you think is the most important thing you can learn from him?

I think I have many teammates I can learn from. Taking Rodri as an example, the most important thing I should learn from him is the maturity and leadership he shows.

Can you share some specifics with us? For example, tactical or football details where you would say: "I want to learn this, but add my own characteristics." Do you know what I mean?

I think that even with opponents around him, he stays very patient when he has the ball. That's what I focus on most about him.

Okay. Last question: you have a very interesting match coming up. Considering everything that happened against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey and the Champions League last season, do you feel there's a bit of revenge in this game? Does this match have special significance for you?

Yes, we want to win all our matches. We will give our best and use the rest of this week to prepare well and try to keep our place at the top of the table.