Barcelona midfielder Gavi ruled out for 4-5 months after knee surgery

The 21-year-old, who had only just returned from an 11-month layoff following a torn ACL sustained in November 2023, has now undergone an arthroscopic procedure to repair a medial meniscus injury in the same right knee.

Gavi had featured in Barcelona's opening two matches of the season but experienced discomfort in training during August, prompting scans that fortunately ruled out a repeat ACL tear.

However, the meniscus damage required surgical intervention, with the club confirming the procedure was done to preserve the cartilage, estimating a recovery period of four to five months.

"Gavi has had an arthroscopy to resolve a medial meniscus injury, which was sutured to preserve the meniscus," a Barcelona statement read.

"Recovery time is estimated at around 4-5 months."

The injury is a cruel setback for both Gavi and Barcelona, especially with the player having only recently fought his way back to fitness.

While the club had initially hoped to manage the issue without surgery and expected him back within weeks, the latest timeline means the Spain international is unlikely to return before February or March. Given the sensitive nature of the injury and his recent history, a cautious approach is likely, further delaying his comeback.

This news leaves new head coach Hansi Flick short in midfield options, with Gavi having been expected to play a key role this season.

In the short term, La Masia graduates such as Marc Bernal, recently back from his own injury, could be called upon to step into the first-team picture.

For Gavi, it marks yet another frustrating chapter in a young career already disrupted by serious injuries, as he now faces a race to be fully fit before the final stretch of the season and ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

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