Hansi Flick on Gavi: “If anyone can come back stronger, it’s him”

FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick assured on Wednesday that the club will fully support Pablo Páez Gavira ‘Gavi’, who underwent knee arthroscopy and will be sidelined for four to five months.

“His attitude, heart, and mentality are top level. Now it’s about being disciplined, recovering, and doing what needs to be done every day. We’re going to help him. He knows it’s tough, but if anyone can do it, it’s Gavi,” Flick said from the press room at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, ahead of Barça’s LaLiga clash with Real Oviedo on Matchday 6.

Gavi motivated to come back stronger

The German coach stressed that at 21 years old, Gavi still has “a long career ahead of him,” and after speaking with him, he noticed “a strong mentality and great desire to return.”

Lamine Yamal and the motivation after the Ballon d’Or

Flick also spoke about Lamine Yamal, who finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting behind Ousmane Dembélé of PSG.

“Not winning it at 18 is extra motivation for the coming years,” Flick explained. He also confirmed that the Barça winger, who has been dealing with pubis discomfort since early September, could make his return “very soon.”

The German added: “It’s not just him, all the players must feel my confidence. It’s important to manage them well so the team can compete at the highest level.”

Pedri and international recognition

On Pedri, who finished 11th in the Ballon d’Or rankings, Flick stated that his level is “incredible” and valued the recognition he has received from legends like Paul Scholes of Manchester United.

Balde getting closer to his comeback

A positive note from training came from Alejandro Balde, who trained at the same pace as his teammates for the second consecutive session after recovering from a femoral biceps injury.

Although Flick ruled him out against Oviedo, he left the door open for a potential return Sunday against Real Sociedad at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Flick on the new Spotify Camp Nou

Regarding the progress of the Spotify Camp Nou renovations, Flick admitted he has not yet visited the stadium, but dismissed any concerns that uncertainty over the occupancy license will affect the team’s performance.

“What matters is focusing on our style, no matter where we play. We want to dominate and press the opponent; that’s Barça’s philosophy,” the coach concluded.