Spanish NT coach confirms Barcelona midfielder may have to undergo surgery – ‘He is sad and…’ | OneFootball

Barcelona are facing a fresh injury concern as midfielder Gavi struggles once again with his right knee.

Notably, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, while speaking to El Larguero, has revealed that surgery may be the only way forward for the young star after speaking directly with him about his current condition.

The 21-year-old has been feeling pain in the same knee where he suffered a serious cruciate ligament tear back in 2023.

While doctors have confirmed that the ligament is fully healed, the discomfort now appears to be linked to his meniscus.

This setback has already ruled him out of Barcelona’s upcoming game against Valencia, creating yet another challenge for Hansi Flick as he tries to balance his midfield options.

Barcelona’s recovery plan for Gavi

Barcelona had initially chosen not to rush into another surgery for Gavi. Instead, the club prepared a conservative recovery plan involving three weeks of treatment and physical therapy.

The hope is that his pain eases during this period, allowing him to make a gradual return first to training sessions and later to full competitive action.

This approach was seen as the best way to protect Gavi from further setbacks while avoiding unnecessary surgery.

Gavi might need another surgery. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

However, the uncertainty remains, and the final decision may depend on how his knee responds to the ongoing treatment.

De la Fuente shares concern

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente admitted that he personally spoke to Gavi about the situation.

The young midfielder, he said, is understandably upset as he waits to see whether surgery is required.

“I spoke this morning with Gavi. He is sad and awaiting a possible meniscus surgery,” De la Fuente revealed.

“He is a very strong… I encouraged him because these are the situations where one comes out stronger.”

Gavi’s resilience has always been one of his biggest strengths, and both Barcelona and Spain will be hoping he recovers without needing another operation.

For now, his future in the short term depends on how his knee responds in the coming weeks.