Gavi tried to play through the pain

Barcelona had made a convincing start to their league campaign when concern suddenly shifted towards Gavi shortly before half-time. According to AS’ report on Gavi’s injury against Elche, the 22-year-old was caught on his right leg while attempting to win the ball back around the 40th minute. What initially appeared to be a simple knock quickly became more concerning as the midfielder continued to limp.

Gavi attempted to remain on the pitch, but Hansi Flick soon recognised that something was wrong and instructed Pedri to warm up. The midfielder eventually went to ground and was examined by Barcelona doctor Ricard Pruna before being replaced. His reaction immediately raised anxiety because the pain involved the same knee that has already caused him a lengthy spell away from football.

Flick offers cautious optimism

The first update after the match was considerably more encouraging than the images had suggested. According to Cadena SER’s report on Flick’s post-match update, Gavi is due to undergo an MRI on Monday to establish the exact extent of the problem. Flick confirmed that the issue was in the knee but offered a cautiously positive assessment.

“We think it is less serious than we feared,” the Barcelona coach said after the 5-0 win. He nevertheless stressed that the club must wait for the scan before reaching any conclusion. As of Monday morning, Barcelona had not issued an official medical diagnosis.

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The history makes every scare bigger

There is an obvious reason why the sight of Gavi holding his right knee creates immediate concern. Barcelona’s official medical update from November 2023 confirmed that he suffered a complete anterior cruciate ligament tear in that knee, together with an injury to the lateral meniscus, while playing for Spain against Georgia.

He subsequently underwent surgery and did not return to a Barcelona squad until October 2024, 336 days after suffering the injury.

The circumstances this time are different. Sunday’s problem followed direct contact, and Flick’s initial assessment was more optimistic. Until the MRI results arrive, however, Barcelona will be reluctant to make assumptions.

For now, a night that should have been remembered only for five goals has left the Spanish champions waiting nervously for news about one of their most important midfielders.

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