Gavi Hopeful of Making Spain’s World Cup As He Nears Return From Knee Injury

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has expressed his desire to represent Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. 

Gavi has been out of action since suffering a knee injury in August. He underwent surgery in September and is only expected to return to action in late February or early March.

He is not the only Barcelona player fighting to make Luis de la Fuente’s World Cup squad. Despite his excellent performances, Joan Garcia could miss the World Cup, as the coach already has a goalkeeping unit he trusts.

Gavi Makes World Cup Admission As He Recovers From Knee Injury

Gavi is one of the most sought-after midfielders in the world.

However, making Luis de la Fuente’s World Cup squad would not be straightforward. Spain have several talented midfielders raring to take Gavi’s spot, and they have been playing consistently since the start of the season.

The Barcelona midfielder still hopes to compete in the World Cup, but prioritises his recovery above everything else.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, he said:

“Going to the World Cup would be very good, that’s what I want.

“Although, I must focus on recovery, finish the season with Barca and then it would be great to be able to go to the World Cup.”

Pablo Gavi: “I’m meeting the deadlines that have been set for me and, so far, everything is going very well. In theory, after five months I can already be well to play.” [@ffpolo] ️ pic.twitter.com/LNxOl40G5i

— barcacentre (@barcacentre) December 28, 2025

Gavi shares a special relationship with De la Fuente, and the player showed gratitude towards his manager for his unyielding support.

He added:

“He [De la Fuente] has always worried about me. He calls me many times to find out how I am. I’m very grateful to him because he’s always been on the lookout.”

Gavi Vows to Be Back to His 100% for Barcelona

Although his World Cup participation remains doubtful, Gavi is hopeful about his future.

He claimed that even though he did not know when he would return to the pitch, fans would get to see his best version.

“I’m doing very well, I’m following the agreed deadlines, and I hope to continue like this,” he told Diario Sport.

“I miss the ball a lot, being with the ball and playing with your teammates.”

The Gavi you all remember will soon be back! pic.twitter.com/CwlotyIYY9

— total Barça (@totalBarca) December 29, 2025

The midfielder added:

“People will be able to see the Gavi they are waiting for, I have that in my head and I have the mentality, which makes me strong to achieve it.

“I don’t know when I’ll come back from injury, but when I do it will be one hundred percent.”

Despite playing without Gavi for several months, the Blaugrana managed to deliver a strong 2025. Barcelona scored more points than Real Madrid, winning the 2024/25 LaLiga title and finishing the year with a four-point lead at the top of the 2025/26 table.