Many key Barcelona stars have already had to endure worrying injuries this season. With the more demanding footballing calendar now taking over, many clubs across the world are experiencing an increase in injuries. However, Barcelona are a rather special case with the number of major injuries they have sustained.
Interestingly, both the midfield and defensive positions have been the ones primarily impacted. Marc Andre Ter Stegen and Marcos Alonso both had to undergo back surgery, while the likes of Pedri, Inigo Martinez, and Joao Cancelo continue with more conservative recoveries.
However, the harshest punishment has undoubtedly been the one to Gavi. The young Spanish midfield tore his ACL while on international duty and has been ruled out for the rest of the season. While his recovery time is expected to be long, SPORT claims that it is progressing well.
In fact, with the way things are going, it will not be too long before Gavi can return to more high intensity trainings. Moreover, to allow him more room to recover properly, the Spanish National team does not plan on calling him up for the Olympic games nor for the Euros scheduled in 2024.
Even though it is expected he will have recovered by then, Spain will likely not take any chances. This decision to exclude him does not stem from a lack of faith in his abilities, but the complete opposite instead. Gavi is seen as a key player for both Barça and Spain for many years to come, and preserving him at his best possible level is crucial.
Apart from Gavi, all the other injured players are expected to return at some point during the season. However, the time at which they return will be key for FC Barcelona. Up next for La Blaugrana is the Spanish Super Cup, and the squad list for the competition already includes Pedri and Joao Cancelo.