Barcelona encouraged by Gavi progress before La Liga clash with Valencia

Barcelona have been handed a boost before Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Valencia, with Gavi expected to return to on-pitch work on Thursday as he continues his recovery from a leg problem.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the midfielder is set to take part in a significant part of Barcelona’s training session alongside his team-mates. The development represents an important step forward after concerns were raised by the injury he suffered during the opening round of the league season against Elche.

Gavi was struck heavily on his right leg during that match and subsequently reported discomfort. Barcelona’s medical staff decided to remove him from the pitch as a precaution.

The situation caused particular concern because the injury occurred in the same leg in which Gavi previously suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament tear. However, subsequent examinations ruled out a significant injury and confirmed that the latest problem was no more than a bruise.

Since then, Gavi has followed an individual training programme designed to ensure that the pain disappears completely. His gradual return to work on the pitch is therefore being treated as an encouraging sign, although Barcelona are not planning to rush him back into competitive action.

The club’s priority is to restore Gavi’s confidence and feel for the game step by step. It has not been ruled out that he could travel with the squad to Mestalla for the meeting with Valencia, but his involvement will depend on how he responds during the next stages of his recovery.

Gavi’s potential return would be especially significant for head coach Hansi Flick. The 21-year-old is regarded as an important member of the squad because of both his contribution on the pitch and his influence within the dressing room.

Barcelona will continue to assess his condition before making a final decision on whether he is included for Sunday’s fourth-round fixture. For now, his planned return to group work offers encouragement following the initial fears that the blow might have affected the same knee and leg previously damaged by his serious ligament injury.