Barcelona receive major boost in LaLiga title race as Gavi returns ahead of Sevilla clash

Barcelona’s push to stay ahead in the LaLiga title race just got a significant lift. The club announced Saturday that midfielder Gavi has returned to full fitness and will be available for Sunday’s home game against Sevilla.

The 21-year-old has been sidelined for months, making his comeback a timely boost as Barcelona attempt to fend off pressure from Real Madrid at the top of the standings.

Gavi’s long road back from knee surgery

Gavi has appeared in only two matches this season. His last outing came in Barcelona’s win over Levante on Aug. 23, 2025.

Exactly one month later, the Spanish international underwent arthroscopic surgery to address an internal meniscus injury in his right knee. The procedure ruled him out for an extended stretch of the campaign and forced Barcelona to navigate the fall and winter months without one of their most influential midfielders.

Now, nearly seven months later, the club believes he is ready to return.

Flick eager but cautious

Gavi was an unused substitute in Tuesday’s draw against Newcastle United in the UEFA Champions League. His inclusion in the squad, however, signaled that a full comeback was close.

Sunday’s matchup with Sevilla could mark his first minutes in 205 days.

“I’m really happy that he’s back,” Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick said in his pregame news conference. “He’s progressing well now, and we’ll take good care of him.”

Title race pressure from Madrid

Barcelona enter the weekend four points ahead of Real Madrid in LaLiga. That cushion, however, could shrink quickly.

If Madrid beat Elche on Saturday, Barcelona’s lead would be cut to just one point before kickoff against Sevilla.

Gavi’s return therefore arrives at a critical moment, giving Flick another midfield option as the title race enters its decisive stretch.

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