Xavi says Gavi’s injury is a significant blow for Barcelona this season

This article provides an update on the injury of Barcelona midfielder Gavi and the impact it will have on the team. It also highlights the frustration of the club towards the Spanish Football Federation for playing Gavi in back-to-back games during the international break. Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández expressed the importance of finding solutions in Gavi’s absence and proposed changes to the international football schedule to avoid such injuries in the future. Additionally, it mentions the absence of Marc-André ter Stegen and the return of Frenkie de Jong and Sergi Roberto to the team, providing a comprehensive outlook on the team’s upcoming games and challenges they will face.
Barcelona’s coach, Xavi Hernández, expressed his sentiments regarding Gavi’s recent injury, stating that the 19-year-old midfielder is irreplaceable after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament while representing Spain. Xavi emphasized the significant loss for Barcelona and the challenge of finding solutions without Gavi’s presence. He acknowledged the difficulty of facing Rayo Vallecano without Gavi’s mentality and quality, indicating the team’s need for his contributions in the upcoming intense match.

Xavi also addressed concerns about the scheduling of international football, attributing Gavi’s injury to the demanding calendar. He proposed potential changes to the schedule to minimize excessive traveling for players and to allow for more time with their club teams. Xavi stressed the impact of such scheduling on players’ physical well-being, highlighting the challenges faced by those who have to travel extensively for international commitments.

In addition to Gavi, Barcelona will also be without goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen for the upcoming match against Rayo Vallecano. However, Frenkie de Jong is set to return to action after a two-month injury layoff, with Sergi Roberto also expected to be available for their upcoming Champions League game.

Barcelona is aiming to secure success in both domestic and European competitions, with crucial matches against FC Porto and Atlético Madrid on the horizon following their encounter with Rayo Vallecano.