Barcelona Star Gavi Suffers Devastating Injury Blow Before Crucial Rayo Vallecano Showdown

Barcelona has confirmed that Gavi will be absent from their Madrid journey this weekend following discomfort in his right knee, with sources indicating mounting worries regarding the extent of his condition.

The 21-year-old was unable to finish Friday's practice session, raising concerns across Catalonia. Following additional medical examinations, the club has officially ruled him out for Sunday's match against Rayo Vallecano.

This discomfort has also led to Gavi's withdrawal from Spain's national team roster for the September international window. The attacking midfielder will be unavailable for La Roja's forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches versus Bulgaria and Türkiye.

Barcelona has not provided a specific timeframe for the Spaniard's comeback, merely noting that his "return will be determined by his rehabilitation progress."

This development represents a significant worry for Barcelona considering Gavi's previous knee problems. The Spain representative sustained an ACL tear in November 2023 that sidelined him for 11 months.

While Barcelona hasn't revealed the severity of the problem, AS indicates it's significant enough to potentially sideline Gavi beyond just the Rayo Vallecano encounter. If the La Masia graduate faces an extended absence, he risks missing the Catalans' Camp Nou return on September 14.

Gavi is also racing against time to return for Barcelona's inaugural 2025–26 Champions League league phase match against Newcastle United on September 18.

The 21-year-old appeared in Barcelona's opening two games of their Spanish championship defense, contributing to Hansi Flick's team's wins over Mallorca and Levante. Despite only 66 minutes of playing time this season, he has already recorded one assist.

Barcelona must manage without Gavi this weekend at Estadio de Vallecas. The reigning La Liga titleholders still aim to achieve nine points from three games to start the 2025–26 campaign.