Shock injury keeps Barcelona gem out until March

FC Barcelona suffers a shock injury blow as their prized gem is ruled out until March, dealing a major setback to Hansi Flick’s plans.

After initially exploring conservative treatment options for his knee injury, the situation worsened, necessitating arthroscopic surgery.

The update has forced Barcelona to brace for a much longer absence than first anticipated, disrupting their midfield depth.

The player in question is Pablo Gavi, the 21-year-old La Masia graduate and a fan-favorite midfielder for FC Barcelona.

Gavi had a promising start to the 2025/26 season but was sidelined early on due to the severity of his knee injury.

Initial expectations of a January or February return have since been revised, with sources such as Mundo Deportivo now projecting his comeback to be unlikely before March 2026.

This delay is a huge setback not only for Gavi but for the Barcelona squad and head coach Hansi Flick, given Gavi’s importance in multiple midfield roles.

Gavi’s injury is particularly unfortunate as he had been in fine form during the preseason and was gearing up for more involvement in Barcelona’s campaign.

His ability to provide creativity, energy, and tactical flexibility makes him a valuable asset.

While he has only featured twice this season, contributing one assist, his absence leaves a noticeable gap in Barcelona’s midfield options.

The club is prioritizing Gavi’s long-term recovery over any rushed return, emphasizing the importance of full rehabilitation to ensure his fitness and longevity.

Gavi’s future remains bright, with many considering him a pivotal figure for Barcelona’s future and the Spanish national team.

As he continues his rehabilitation at the Ciutat Esportiva facilities, fans and management alike will hope for a full and successful return in the spring of 2026, marking a crucial step in Barcelona’s season and long-term ambitions.