Gavi Faces Lengthy Layoff After Complicated Knee Surgery
What was supposed to be a routine medical procedure has turned into a serious setback for Barcelona and Spain’s midfield prodigy Pablo Páez Gavira, “Gavi”. The 20-year-old, widely seen as a future leader for both club and country, is now facing months on the sidelines after doctors uncovered more damage than first expected.
Surgery Reveals Deeper Problem
Barcelona confirmed that Gavi underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, carried out by Dr. Juan Carles Monlu under the supervision of the club’s medical staff. The operation focused on repairing the meniscus using a surgical suture in order to preserve the tissue.
Initially thought to require just five weeks of recovery, the revised prognosis is far more severe: four to five months out of action. That rules Gavi out until at least March, a critical stage of the season and alarmingly close to the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, raising doubts over his availability for Spain.
Context of Previous Injuries
This latest issue is unrelated to the devastating blow Gavi suffered in November 2023, when he tore his ACL and lateral meniscus, an injury that sidelined him for almost a year. Coincidentally, Dr. Monlu also operated on that occasion.
Barcelona Left Stunned
Sources say Gavi had initially hoped for a quick return and even asked the club to delay any announcement until the medical situation was fully clear. But once the extended timeline was confirmed, Barcelona made the news public, leaving both teammates and fans in shock.
As one of Europe’s most exciting young players, Gavi’s absence will be keenly felt. The club must now consider alternative midfield options, while ensuring the youngster receives the mental and physical support necessary for a successful comeback.
For Barcelona, this is more than just an injury—it’s a reminder of how fragile even their brightest future stars can.
