Hansi Flick appeared at a press conference at the Ciutat Esportiva as he does every time before a match. The German was brief, as he only answered questions for 13 minutes, but he spoke about numerous topics. One of them was the possible starting position of Gavi in Vigo, something that could happen because, as he assured, "he is prepared" for it.
Starter after 380 days?
Gavi's last start for FC Barcelona was 380 days ago, on November 7, 2023 against Shakhtar Donetsk. His serious injury kept him off the pitch for 11 months. He made his comeback at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys against Sevilla, coming off the bench in the 83rd minute, replacing his teammate and friend Pedri.
Since his return to the pitch, the Sevilla midfielder has played in all the games in which he has been available, a total of 6 games. However, he has only played 48 minutes, which generates an average of 8 per game. He has always come off the bench, with the match against Red Star being the one in which he came on first, in the 68th minute, replacing Frenkie de Jong.
In the press conference prior to the trip to Vigo, Hansi Flick explained that Gavi "is ready to start", referring to the fact that he is in top form. If he does start, it will be four days after the first anniversary of that fateful match in Valladolid in which he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee with the Spanish national team.
"He tells me he can play anywhere"
Regarding the Los Palacios y Villafranca native, Hansi also said that he had told him that "he can play anywhere." He said that he promised to "give his all" in any position he plays. That is why, in a context in which Barça is "lammore limited without Lamine," from Flick's point of view, Gavi's contribution can serve to cover some key position.
It is important to remember that Xavi has already used Pablo Páez Gavira in various positions. He is remembered as a pure inside midfielder, in the double pivot, positioned as an attacking midfielder and even as a central left winger. He has played a great role in all positions, proving to be a 'chameleon' footballer when it comes to adapting to different areas of the field.