Spanish national team manager Luis de la Fuente claims Gavi could undergo meniscus surgery on his knee.

 

Barcelona midfielder Gavi is facing renewed fears over his long-term fitness after feeling fresh pain in his right knee during training with Spain. The 21-year-old suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in 2023 which sidelined him for almost a year, and now he may be forced to undergo another surgery on the same knee. Although Barcelona’s medical staff are currently exploring conservative treatment options, surgery remains a possibility if the pain does not subside.

Gavi has admitted to those close to him that the situation has left him “sad” as he braces for another uncertain spell. Since returning from his major layoff, the midfielder has been unable to regain consistent rhythm. He has made 42 appearances across competitions but started only 14 times in La Liga and just three matches in the Champions League. This season, he has yet to feature from the start, with only two substitute appearances and one assist to his name.

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For a player once hailed as one of the brightest products of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, the recurring injuries have stalled his development and raised concern about his ability to reach his full potential at both club and international level.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has spoken openly about Gavi’s mental state, confirming that the midfielder is struggling emotionally with the prospect of another lengthy absence. In an interview with El Larguero, he revealed that he spoke directly with the player and offered words of encouragement. “He is sad and awaiting a possible meniscus surgery. He is very strong… I encouraged him because these are the situations where one comes out stronger,” De la Fuente explained.

Barcelona are set to resume action after the international break with a home clash against Valencia on September 14, but Gavi is unlikely to be available. His absence would be a fresh blow for the defending La Liga champions, who are already dealing with multiple injury problems. Alejandro Balde has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, while there are ongoing concerns about the fitness of Lamine Yamal and Frenkie de Jong.

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For both Barcelona and Spain, Gavi remains a vital long-term asset, but the repeated setbacks have made his situation a cause for worry. The club and national team will monitor developments closely in the coming weeks, with the possibility of surgery looming large over the young midfielder’s career.