Gavi injury fears allayed as Barcelona confirm extent of midfielder's injury

The Blaugrana began their title defence with a dominant 5-0 demolition of Elche in their opening game of the season. 

A brace from Raphinha and Fermin Lopez, as well as a goal from former Borussia Dortmund striker Karim Adeyemi, gave the visitors a comfortable win.

However, the club and its supporters held their breath during the game when Gavi was forced off the pitch in tears late in the first half. 

Gavi’s injury caused immediate concern, given the Spanish international's history with serious injuries to his right knee.

The midfielder previously missed the latter half of the 2023-24 season and Euro 2024 due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. 

He then sat out most of the 2025-26 campaign after undergoing surgery for a medial meniscus tear in the same knee.

However, a medical update from the club on Monday brought a collective sigh of relief. "First-team player Gavi took a knock to his right knee during yesterday's game," the statement read. 

"Medical tests carried out this morning have confirmed that it is only a bruise. He is expected to return to training shortly."

The positive news means Gavi could even be available for Barcelona's next fixture, a home game against Athletic Club on Thursday.

The injury scare was the only blemish on an otherwise perfect start to the season for Hansi Flick's team.