Gavi set for comeback as Barcelona face Sevilla

Gavi set for comeback as Barcelona face Sevilla

FC Barcelona supporters watched in despair as Gavi was carried off the pitch in tears during Spain's match against Georgia on 19 November last year.

The young talent suffered a complete rupture of his right anterior cruciate ligament and an associated meniscus injury, which sidelined him for nearly a year.

After months of dedicated rehabilitation, Gavi is finally ready to make his long-awaited return.

Gavi has been included in the squad for Barcelona's upcoming match against Sevilla this Sunday, barring any last-minute setbacks during training. Having trained well in recent days, Gavi will be looking to return to action after 336 days on the sidelines.

Although he is part of the squad, the extent of Gavi's playtime will depend on the match's progression, as Hansi Flick, Barcelona's newly appointed head coach, intends to ease him back into competitive football gradually.

"We want to manage his return carefully," Flick explained. "The priority is to ensure he regains his rhythm without risking further injury."

This approach mirrors how Flick previously handled the reintegration of other key players like Ansu Fati and Frenkie de Jong, who were also eased back into the team following injuries.

Gavi's return is pivotal for Barcelona's midfield depth, especially as Flick looks to establish a competitive squad.

Additionally, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez are nearing full recovery and may also be included in the matchday squad, increasing the options available to Flick.

Frenkie de Jong has been working hard to regain full fitness after not being called up for international duty, allowing him to focus solely on training.

As Barcelona prepare for the clash with Sevilla, Flick is keenly aware of the growing competition in midfield, aiming to strike the right balance as the team heads into a crucial part of the season.