Injuries are always a sour update to receive, especially at Barcelona. The Catalan giants have been plagued with sidelined players across the season already at such an early stage. The latest international break does not do them any favors either.
First came the news that Marc Andre Ter Stegen would return to Barcelona. His back problems seem to have resurfaced and German coach Julian Nagelsmann did not hesitate in allowing him to leave for Spain and have more tests and medical assessments take place.
On the other hand, Gavi did not end up being so lucky. Already showing worrying facial expressions after the game against Cyprus, he started once again. In the latest game against Georgia, Gavi was included in de la Fuente’s starting eleven.
Not long after, bad luck chose to strike. Nearly 20 minutes into the game, Gavi suffered a severe injury. Now being reported as an ACL issue, Gavi’s season could be in danger as a whole given the severity of such injuries and their recovery time.
One player who did not, however, let his injury be in vain was Ferran Torres. A Spanish countrymen for Gavi as well as a teammate in Barcelona, Torres put on a wonderful individual performance that was rewarded with an assist in the 4th minute as well as a goal in the 55th minute.
First, he assisted Le Normand through a free-kick cross that his teammate headed into the back of the net. Then, a great cross from Jose Gaya was met by Ferran Torres himself, who headed the ball downwards to score Spain’s second of the night. This would also be his 18th goal for the National team, with only Alvaro Morata having more as a currently active player.
However, the highlight of his goal was undoubtedly the celebration. As brought to light by SPORT, the Spaniard took his teammate Gavi’s jersey and lifted it up as part of his celebration. A bittersweet moment of brotherhood, the injury to the youngster completely dulled the joy of the victory.
Following the game, Torres even left his Barça teammate some words of encouragement: “We leave with a bittersweet taste (after the victory). I send him encouragement and strength. May he recover as soon as possible.”
In terms of the severity of the injury, Gavi could potentially miss the rest of the season. The Spanish youngster has been fundamental to both Spain and Barcelona this season, which is why a speculated injury to the ACL is extremely concerning for both parties.
Further tests in Barcelona are yet to be carried out, however. The full extent of the injury and duration of his recovery will come to light sooner or later. For now, Barcelona need to brace themselves for even the worst of news.
