FC Barcelona undoubtedly experienced a true celebration this past Sunday at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys (Montjuïc). And why wouldn't they? The team led by Hansi Flick, supported by an offensive, overwhelming, and relentless playing style, crushed Sevilla (5-1), with double goals from Robert Lewandowski and Pablo Torre, and another goal from Pedri Gonzalez.
However, this match was also a true celebration and a moment of great joy for the attendees at Montjuïc, due to Gavi's emotional return to the field. An emotional scene unfolded when, in the 83rd minute, embraced by the thunderous applause from the fans, the hug from Hansi Flick, and the joy of his teammates, the Andalusian entered the pitch replacing Pedri Gonzalez, who, in a gesture of recognition and affection, handed him the captain's armband.
Gavi, returning to action after about 348 days out due to a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and an associated injury to the lateral meniscus suffered on November 19, 2023, had the opportunity to showcase a couple of plays where he demonstrated that, although not in his best competitive form, intensity and commitment on the field are more present than ever. This is excellent news for Barcelona, which definitely missed having a player of his quality and inspiration.
Gavi's emotional gratitude to the culé fans for their support upon his return
After the match against Sevilla and overcoming the nostalgia surrounding Gavi's emotional return, beyond the message expressed in the mixed zone, where he stated he felt "very happy to return with the team after so long" and that he had "dreamed of this moment for many months," as well as how difficult the injury was for him, mentioning: "the worst part of these days has been not being able to play, it's very tough to watch from the sidelines. You have to enjoy every moment and appreciate things, that's what I've learned," the Andalusian took to Barcelona's social media to send a beautiful message of thanks to the fans for the support received upon his return to the field.
"Culés, thank you very much for the support today. I'm really happy and content, also for the victory. Now, let's win the next two matches. I love you all," concluded Gavi. Despite the excitement of his return and the ecstasy of such a resounding victory against Sevilla, it's clear that the Palacios native is already thinking about the two upcoming significant matches for the team, such as the clash against Bayern Munich at Montjuïc on matchday three of the UEFA Champions League next Wednesday, October 23, and the showdown against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, the 26th. It remains to be seen if the player will get some minutes in these matches. Will Hansi Flick choose to field him? Only time will tell.