Barcelona midfielder opens up on injury struggles and potential return – ‘I should be ready to play in…’ | OneFootball

Barcelona continue to receive encouraging news from within the dressing room, and one of the most positive updates concerns Gavi. 

The midfielder’s recovery from knee surgery is progressing exactly as planned, and there is a growing sense of calm and confidence around his return. 

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo after another individual training and recovery session, Gavi offered reassurance about his condition and mindset.

The Barcelona midfielder underwent surgery on his right knee on September 23 and has followed the recovery roadmap step by step since then. 

Reflecting on his progress, Gavi made it clear that everything is on track, saying, “Everything is going according to plan.” 

For now, there has been no deviation from the original plan set out by the medical staff. Gavi himself confirmed that the recovery timeline is being respected, explaining, 

“I’m meeting the deadlines they’ve set for me, and so far, everything is going very well.” 

There has been little room for rest during the festive period. While many players enjoyed extended breaks, Gavi only allowed himself a short pause. 

“What really matters to me is being here working to recover as quickly and as well as possible,” he explained. 

When will he return?

The recovery timeline remains unchanged. Gavi himself recalled the expected return window, stating, “In theory, in five months I should be ready to play.” 

Gavi is expected to return in February. (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images)

February remains the target, but there is no intention of rushing the process. 

Being sidelined has also given him a different perspective on football. Reflecting on the mental side of recovery, he admitted, 

“You learn a lot when you suffer this type of injury,” before adding honestly, “Above all, you learn to be patient. What hurts me most is watching my teammates and not being able to play.”

Support from the teammates

Meanwhile, support within the squad has been absolute. Gavi highlighted the role of his teammates, saying,

“I have no complaints about my teammates. They treat me very well,” before naming several who have been especially close, “Araujo, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Balde.”

Watching from the sidelines, Gavi sees a Barcelona side performing well but refuses to let standards drop. 

“They’re having a great season,” he acknowledged, quickly adding a warning, “We can’t relax because no trophies have been decided yet.” 

Looking ahead, his ambition remains grounded. “All I want is to recover and be with my team playing,” he said, before concluding, 

“I don’t know if it will be my year… I still have many years ahead of me.”