Dec 1, 2022; Doha, Qatar; Spain midfielder Gavi (9) dribbles the ball against Japan during the first half of a group stage match during the 2022 World Cup at Khalifa International Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

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Gavi Injury Update: How Long Will Barcelona Be Without Their Midfielder?

Barcelona have been dealt another major injury blow with confirmation that midfielder Gavi will be sidelined following knee surgery. The 21-year-old already missed most of 2024 after tearing his cruciate ligament. The Spanish international has now suffered a meniscus problem in the same right knee.

Initially, the Catalan club hoped conservative treatment would be enough to solve the issue, but further tests forced a decision to proceed with surgery. Gavi has not played since August, and this latest setback continues a difficult period for the La Masia graduate. Notably, Gavi only returned from his ACL nightmare last year.

Gavi Injury Update: How Long Will Barcelona Be Without Gavi?

Barcelona have confirmed that Gavi will be sidelined for up to five months after undergoing surgery. As a result, the 21-year-old is not expected to return until early 2026. The timing is especially tough with Spain preparing for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Luis de la Fuente’s side are among the early favourites, but Gavi will now be facing a race against time to regain fitness ahead of the tournament.

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Barcelona said in a statement on social media, “Gavi has had an arthroscopy to resolve a medial meniscus injury, which was sutured to preserve the meniscus. Recovery time is estimated at around 4-5 months.”

MEDICAL NEWS

First team player Pablo Páez Gavira 'Gavi' has had an arthroscopy to resolve a medial meniscus injury, which was sutured to preserve the meniscus. Recovery time is estimated at around 4-5 months. pic.twitter.com/IvLzWYR7jC
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 23, 2025

Since breaking into the first team in 2021, Gavi has become an integral figure for both Barcelona and Spain. His energy, tenacity and versatility have made him a key presence in midfield. However, recurring knee problems have interrupted his rapid rise. While Gavi begins his recovery, Hansi Flick must refocus on a demanding run of fixtures.

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Barcelona face Real Oviedo away in La Liga on Thursday, host Real Sociedad at the weekend, and then take on Paris Saint-Germain in a high-profile Champions League clash next week. The Blaugrana will be hoping their midfield depth can absorb the loss of Gavi’s absence.

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Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.