Barcelona fear Gavi could miss Athletic Club clash as Rodri nears debut

Barcelona midfielder Gavi is a major doubt for Thursday’s match against Athletic Club after missing the club’s training session on Wednesday.

Gavi was absent from the first-team group after suffering a knock during Barcelona’s recent victory over Elche. His condition will continue to be assessed by manager Hansi Flick in the hours before the game, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Several reports suggest Flick could decide not to risk Gavi against Athletic Club, despite the injury being described as a bruise rather than a serious problem.

Barcelona confirmed on Monday that Gavi had injured his right knee. The club said medical tests carried out that morning had ruled out a more significant issue.

“Gavi has suffered an injury to his right knee, and medical tests carried out on Monday morning have confirmed that it is only a bruise,” Barcelona said in a statement.

The club added: “He is expected to return to training soon.”

Flick had already spoken about the injury after the match against Elche, saying the midfielder’s condition was better than initially feared.

“The injury is to the knee. We have to be patient and wait for the results of the tests. His condition is a little better than expected after he was injured. After the match, he was feeling much better, and we will see what happens,” said Flick.

While Gavi’s availability remains uncertain, Rodri has trained with Barcelona’s first team for a third successive day. He is therefore expected to have a chance of making his first appearance in a Barcelona shirt against Athletic Club.

The potential absence of Gavi would leave Flick having to consider alternatives in midfield for the Spanish league fixture. Barcelona will be hoping the latest assessment allows the 20-year-old to return soon, in line with the club’s initial statement.

Barcelona began their defence of the Spanish league title with a convincing 5-0 win over Elche in the second round. Raphinha scored twice, while Fermin Lopez also claimed two goals and Karim Adeyemi completed the scoring.

The result gave Barcelona their first three points of the campaign as they began their attempt to retain the title. Thursday’s meeting with Athletic Club will provide Flick with an early selection concern, with Gavi’s fitness and Rodri’s possible debut among the main issues to be resolved before kick-off.