Barcelona midfielder Gavi is set to make his comeback against Sevilla in LaLiga on Sunday, having spent nearly seven months sidelined due to a knee injury.
At just 21 years old, Gavi hasn’t played since Barça’s victory over Levante on August 23, after undergoing surgery to address a meniscus issue in his right knee.
“He is available again, and I’m really happy about it,” confirmed Barça coach Hansi Flick during a news conference on Saturday.
“He’s doing well. He understands that it’s a gradual process. It hasn’t been easy for him, and considering he has many more years ahead of him, we have to keep that in mind too. However, it will be a special game for him.
“His attitude is fantastic. We’ll see how he progresses from this point. His desire to play for the club and the team is commendable. It’s great news that he’s back.”
This marks Gavi’s second significant injury in his early career.
After amassing over 100 appearances as a teenager, he suffered an ACL tear while representing Spain in late 2024, which kept him out for nearly a year.
He returned to action in the last season with 42 appearances, mostly as a substitute, before the meniscus issue interrupted the start of this current season.
Gavi’s return arrives at a vital juncture of the season as Barça pursues both the LaLiga title and Champions League glory.
This weekend, they will host Sevilla, aiming to hold onto their four-point advantage over Real Madrid at the top of the league table.
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On Wednesday, Newcastle United will visit Spotify Camp Nou for the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie, following a 1-1 draw in England last week.
Barcelona will still be missing injured players including Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, and Frenkie de Jong for these matches.
Flick has mentioned the young talent Xavi Espart as a “solid option” to step in at right-back against Sevilla after he impressed on his debut against Newcastle midweek. Additionally, the coach hinted that Lamine Yamal may get a rest this weekend.