Barcelona await Gavi tests after midfielder forced off against Elche

FC Barcelona had almost a perfect start to the 2026-27 season as they won their very first game of the new season, against Elche, with a 5-0 scoreline. Raphinha and Fermin Lopez both scored braces in this match, while the new signing Karim Adeyemi completed the rout with another goal.

There is no doubt that this was an ideal way to start the season. However, there was still one aspect of the game that would have left both the coach, Hansi Flick, and the fans worried to some extent, i.e., the condition of the midfielder Gavi.

The Spaniard suffered a knock while pressing an opposition player, but continued to play on the pitch for quite some time, showing visible signs of pain. Ultimately, as the clock reached the 44th minute, he could not take it anymore, and was subbed out for Pedri.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Gavi will undergo tests, including an MRI scan, at Ciutat Esportiva today to assess whether he is suffering from an injury. However, there is optimism about his condition after Flick assured in his post-match presser that his injury was not as serious as initially feared. In fact, he was seen walking with both his feet, although with a slight limp, as he left the ground following the end of the match.

However, especially because of his history with serious injuries, there was a lot of concern when the midfielder requested the attention of Dr. Ricard Pruna and asked for a substitution during the last stages of the first half. Pedri had to take to the pitch almost without any warm-up.

Hansi Flick and his assistant Marcus Sorg were visibly astonished to see the midfielder asking for a substitution, as they do not want any of their players to continue playing if they are not at 100%. But hopefully, this was only a knock, and Gavi will be back to his best level when Barcelona play their next game against Athletic Club on Thursday.