The 22-year-old Spaniard endured a torrid time over the past two seasons, sidelined for 11 months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in November 2023.
Despite returning last season, he struggled to secure a regular starting spot. Now, with a full pre-season under his belt, Gavi is ready to fight for his position.
The young midfielder shared an Instagram image of his new customised shin pads, emblazoned with the words "passion," "obsession," "resilience," "tenacity," and "courage." Crafted in blue and white with his face on both, the shin pads reflect a collaboration between Barcelona and Nike.
More than a fashion statement, they embody Gavi's emotional journey through injury and recovery. "These words are what kept me going," he said, reflecting on the challenges of the past two years.
During Barcelona's pre-season clash against Vissel Kobe on Sunday, which Barca won 3-1, Gavi slotted into the double pivot role, a position manager Hansi Flick entrusted him with in key matches last season, including against Villarreal and Athletic Club.
In Japan, he showed hunger, constantly demanding the ball and driving play from deep. His energy and vision were clear for all to see.
However, the battle for a midfield spot at Barcelona is fierce. Marc Casado emerged as a revelation last term, while Marc Bernal impressed in the opening three league games before succumbing to injury.
Frenkie de Jong, meanwhile, has rediscovered his best form and remains a favourite of Flick's. With Pedri Gonzalez a guaranteed starter, Gavi faces stiff competition to cement his place in the starting XI.
"I'm ready to give everything," Gavi said after the Vissel Kobe match. "This is my club, and I'll fight for every minute on the pitch."
Tottenham Hotspur's hopes of landing Real Madrid's star winger Rodrygo have been dashed, as the Brazilian forward has his sights set on a more prominent destination, according to recent reports.
Barcelona have long been known for their faith in youth, and manager Hansi Flick has wasted no time in proving his commitment to that tradition.
Chema Andres, the promising 20-year-old midfielder, has bid farewell to Real Madrid after seven years in their esteemed La Fabrica academy, sealing a move to VfB Stuttgart.
Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on Arsenal's William Saliba after facing hurdles in their pursuit of Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate, but are finding their transfer ambitions challenged, according to sources in Spain.
