Barcelona's Gavi Eyes Comeback: Latest Recovery Updates and Return Timeline Revealed

Barcelona has been hit hard by injuries at the start of the 2025–26 season, and the Catalan club has suffered another major setback.

Once again during his young career, Gavi finds himself sidelined after Barcelona announced that the midfielder has had arthroscopic surgery to address a medial meniscus problem and is now facing an extended period out of action.

This development represents a major disappointment for the 21-year-old, who had successfully returned to peak condition last season after missing most of the 2023–24 campaign.

But what is the timeline for Gavi's return to action this time? Here's the most recent update on the young player's injury status.

When Will Gavi Return From Injury?

Regrettably for both Gavi and Barcelona, the Spanish player's condition requires extensive rehabilitation. The defending La Liga titleholders have already announced an expected recovery period of approximately four to five months, indicating the midfielder will be absent for a substantial portion of the season.

Should Gavi require only four months of recovery, he wouldn't be back in action until the end of January, resulting in his absence for nearly the complete Champions League group stage and the opening half of the La Liga season.

If Gavi makes his return for Barcelona's final group stage fixture against Copenhagen at home on January 28, 2026, he will have missed a total of 24 matches in all competitions, potentially increasing to 26 games based on advancement in the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España.

Given that Gavi has already been absent from Barcelona's previous four fixtures, this means he could potentially miss at least 30 games this season. His absence will extend even further if he requires the full five months for recovery or encounters any complications during his rehabilitation process.

Gavi's Injury History

This marks another significant injury in Gavi's professional journey. He endured a severe ACL rupture in November 2023 that kept him out of an incredible 58 matches for both club and national team over a ten-month stretch, having never previously experienced such a serious fitness concern.

Gavi successfully worked his way back into the starting lineup last season and managed to stay relatively healthy throughout the campaign. He was unavailable for five matches representing Barcelona and Spain in 2024–25, completing the season with 42 appearances across all competitions.

"He's a player with tremendous heart and great passion," Flick commented about Gavi's recent injury. "This isn't easy for our squad, as he brings exceptional quality to our team, but all of us will stand behind him and assist him in regaining his form."

Gavi will be hoping for an uncomplicated recovery and smooth transition back into the team once he's cleared to play, with Barcelona likely requiring his adaptability and skill as they pursue La Liga and Champions League success in the latter portion of the season.

*Data from Transfermarkt.