BARCELONA — Two years ago, Pablo “Gavi” Martín Páez was staring at the abyss. A devastating knee injury had sidelined the Barcelona midfielder for months, threatening not just his club career but his place in Spain’s plans for the 2026 World Cup. Today, the 21-year-old is not only back in Barcelona’s starting XI but playing with the kind of authority that has reignited debates about his role in Luis de la Fuente’s national team. His journey from “the infirmary to the inferno,” as one Spanish outlet put it, is one of the most compelling storylines in European football this spring.

From Injury Hell to Starting XI: Gavi’s Timeline

Gavi’s return to form hasn’t been gradual—it’s been meteoric. Here’s how his comeback unfolded in recent weeks:

• March 15, 2026: After nearly eight months on the sidelines, Gavi makes his first appearance since his injury, coming off the bench in a La Liga match. He plays 12 minutes against Rayo Vallecano but doesn’t feature in the subsequent Champions League clash with Newcastle.
• April 3, 2026: Barcelona manager Hansi Flick shocks observers by naming Gavi in his shortlist of potential replacements for the injured Raphinha ahead of a critical La Liga match against Atlético Madrid. “Gavi is at a great level,” Flick tells reporters, a statement many dismiss as psychological gamesmanship against Diego Simeone’s side.
• April 12, 2026: With Barcelona down a man after Cubarsí’s red card in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg, Flick turns to Gavi in the second half. The midfielder delivers an “unexpected level,” per Diario AS, helping Barcelona secure a crucial away draw.
• April 20–27, 2026: Gavi starts four consecutive matches—against Espanyol, Atlético Madrid (Champions League return leg), Celta Vigo, and Getafe—cementing his place in Flick’s XI. His performances earn praise for their intensity, vision, and physicality, with Flick calling him “a player who has suffered twice to return.”

Why Flick’s Faith in Gavi Matters

Flick’s decision to fast-track Gavi’s return isn’t just about tactics—it’s personal. The German coach has been vocal about Gavi’s resilience, framing his comeback as a testament to the player’s character. “If anyone wanted to see him play, it’s me,” Flick said earlier this month. “I grasp how much he has suffered in the last two years.”

That suffering wasn’t just physical. Gavi’s injury coincided with a turbulent period for Barcelona, both on and off the pitch. His absence left a void in the midfield, and his return has injected much-needed dynamism into a team still adapting to Flick’s high-pressing system. Against Getafe on April 27, Gavi completed 92% of his passes, won five duels, and created two key chances—stats that align with his pre-injury form.

But Flick’s trust in Gavi extends beyond sentiment. Tactically, the midfielder’s versatility is invaluable. He can play as a No. 8, a No. 10, or even in a deeper role, offering Flick flexibility in rotations. His ability to press high and recover quickly fits Barcelona’s new identity under the German coach, who has prioritized intensity and verticality.

The World Cup Question: Does Gavi Have a Path to the Squad?

With the 2026 World Cup less than six months away, Spain’s midfield is crowded. Pedri, Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, and Martín Zubimendi are all but guaranteed spots, leaving limited room for others. Yet Gavi’s recent form has forced Luis de la Fuente to reconsider. “He can be the great signing of this cycle for me,” the Spain manager told Diario AS in an off-the-record conversation earlier this year.

Gavi’s case for inclusion rests on three pillars:

1. Versatility: He can play multiple midfield roles, offering de la Fuente tactical flexibility.
2. Big-game experience: At 21, Gavi already has a Champions League semifinal and a Nations League title under his belt. His poise in high-pressure matches is rare for a player his age.
3. Form: His performances in April 2026 have been a reminder of why he was once considered Spain’s next great midfield maestro. If he maintains this level, de la Fuente would be hard-pressed to leave him out.

Still, challenges remain. Spain’s midfield depth is a luxury, but it’s also a headache for de la Fuente. Gavi’s injury history—he’s had two major knee surgeries in the past two years—will give the coaching staff pause. The World Cup, after all, is a marathon, not a sprint. Can Gavi’s body hold up over seven matches in three weeks?

What’s Next for Gavi?

Barcelona’s schedule offers Gavi a final audition before the World Cup. Here’s what’s on the horizon:

For Gavi, every minute on the pitch between now and June is a chance to prove he belongs in Spain’s World Cup plans. For Barcelona, his resurgence is a timely boost as they push for Champions League qualification and a Copa del Rey final.

Key Takeaways

• Gavi’s comeback is complete: After nearly eight months out with injury, the midfielder has reclaimed his starting role at Barcelona, playing four consecutive matches in April 2026.
• Flick’s vote of confidence: Hansi Flick has been Gavi’s biggest advocate, praising his resilience and tactical value. The German coach’s trust has been pivotal in Gavi’s return to form.
• World Cup hopes alive: Gavi’s performances have reignited debates about his place in Spain’s 2026 World Cup squad. His versatility and big-game experience make him a strong candidate, but his injury history remains a concern.
• Next steps: Barcelona’s remaining La Liga matches and the Copa del Rey final (if qualified) will serve as Gavi’s final auditions before Spain’s pre-World Cup training camp in June.

FAQ

1. What was Gavi’s injury, and how long was he out?

Gavi suffered a serious knee injury in August 2025, requiring surgery. He was sidelined for nearly eight months before making his return in March 2026.

2. How has Gavi performed since his return?

In April 2026, Gavi started four consecutive matches for Barcelona, delivering standout performances in the Champions League and La Liga. His passing accuracy, duel success rate, and creativity have all returned to pre-injury levels.

3. What does Gavi’s resurgence signify for Barcelona?

Gavi’s return has provided Barcelona with a dynamic midfield option, adding depth and versatility to Hansi Flick’s system. His form has also eased concerns about the team’s midfield creativity ahead of the season’s final stretch.

4. What are Gavi’s chances of making Spain’s 2026 World Cup squad?

Gavi’s recent form has strengthened his case, but Spain’s midfield is crowded with established stars like Pedri and Rodri. His injury history and the need for durability in a World Cup campaign remain hurdles.

5. What’s next for Gavi and Barcelona?

Barcelona face Real Sociedad and Villarreal in their final La Liga matches, with a potential Copa del Rey final in late May. Gavi will look to maintain his form ahead of Spain’s pre-World Cup training camp in June.

The Road Ahead

Gavi’s story is far from over. His next two months will determine whether he’s a World Cup contender or a cautionary tale about rushing back from injury. For now, though, the narrative is one of triumph. As Diario AS put it, Gavi has “risen from hell twice”—and the football world is watching to see if he can do it one more time on the biggest stage of all.

The next confirmed checkpoint for Gavi is Barcelona’s La Liga match against Real Sociedad on May 5. For fans and analysts alike, it’s a must-watch.