Gavi faces battle for Barcelona role as Rodri strengthens midfield options

Gavi began the season as a first-choice player for Barcelona, but an injury and the arrival of Rodri have reduced his opportunities under manager Hansi Flick. The midfielder, however, continues to work hard and has shown no sign of giving up his place in the squad.

According to Sport, Gavi had prepared exceptionally well for the new campaign. He returned early from his holiday after being crowned a world champion and impressed during pre-season, earning a starting place in Barcelona’s opening La Liga match against Elche.

His progress was interrupted when he suffered a heavy blow to his right leg – the same leg in which he had previously injured his knee. The problem forced him to miss the matches against Athletic Bilbao and Rayo Vallecano.

Rodri started those two games on the bench as he gradually built up his match fitness. Since then, his presence alongside Pedri in Barcelona’s build-up play has left Gavi with less room in the midfield rotation.

Rodri’s influence has grown quickly. He covers a large area of the pitch and has established control in the centre of midfield, underlining the competition Gavi now faces for regular involvement.

Gavi was given only seven minutes in the match against Feyenoord and remained an unused substitute for the games against Valencia and Levante. Rodri, meanwhile, completed the full 90 minutes against Levante.

When Flick wants to rest Pedri, he has chosen Marc Bernal to play in midfield. Despite Gavi’s limited playing time, his attitude has pleased the manager. He continues to support his team-mates and gives maximum effort in training, and Flick is expected to give him further opportunities soon.

The season is long, and Gavi is likely to retain an important role as one of Barcelona’s most talented and energetic players. Flick has particular faith in him, having consistently received strong performances whenever he has relied on the midfielder, especially when Gavi has been fully fit.

Gavi has recently operated close to the creative area of the pitch, but his versatility allows him to play in more advanced positions. He can perform effectively as an attacking midfielder, using his ability to make runs into the penalty area, and can also play on the left wing.

Those qualities give Barcelona several options, although the additional competition created by Rodri’s arrival has affected Gavi’s position for now. Nevertheless, he intends to keep working and continue giving his best in the hope of reclaiming a more prominent role.