Barça confirm double injury blow to Gavi, Fermín
FC Barcelona has confirmed a double injury setback involving key midfielders Gavi and Fermín López, with both players expected to be sidelined for significant periods starting this week.
Gavi will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to address a persistent meniscus problem in his right knee, an injury previously aggravated despite conservative treatment. The club has not specified the precise length of his absence but expects it to extend at least until November. This follows a prior ACL injury in the same knee sustained in late 2023, from which he had been recovering before symptoms recurred early in the current season. The decision for surgery came after intensive sporting stress tests revealed that an operation was necessary to ensure full recovery and optimal return to competition.
Meanwhile, Fermín López has been diagnosed with an iliopsoas muscle injury in his left leg, which will keep him out of action for approximately three weeks. He sustained the injury late in Barcelona’s recent 3-0 victory over Getafe and will miss several upcoming fixtures, including La Liga matches against Real Oviedo, Real Sociedad, and Sevilla, and the critical UEFA Champions League encounter with Paris Saint-Germain. The relatively short-term muscle injury offers some optimism for a return before the end of October.
Gavi’s role as a dynamic central midfielder, known for his vision, composure, and pressing resistance, makes his absence a notable blow to Barcelona’s tactical setup under manager Hansi Flick. Similarly, Fermín López, a versatile midfielder valued for his energy and ball progression, leaves a temporary void in the squad. This injury situation may open opportunities for other squad members, such as Dani Olmo, to step into more regular playing time.
The dual injuries present a challenge to Barcelona’s depth as they navigate a congested schedule in domestic and continental competitions. The club will aim to manage the rehabilitation carefully to safeguard the long-term fitness of both players. Gavi’s surgery and subsequent recovery highlight the ongoing balancing act in preserving a young talent’s career trajectory, while Fermín’s rebound timeline maintains hope for his timely contribution to important upcoming matches.
Overall, the club’s management of these injuries will be pivotal in sustaining Barcelona’s competitive ambitions and maintaining squad cohesion through this critical phase of the season.