Hansi Flick assesses Gavi's absence and assures that Lamine Yamal "will return soon"

FC Barcelona visits Real Oviedo this Thursday (9:30 PM CEST) for matchday 6 of LaLiga EA Sports 25/26. The match at the Carlos Tartiere comes with five injury absences in the Azulgrana squad, with Gavi's being the most serious. In the pre-match press conference, Hansi Flick revealed how the club should support the midfielder to overcome his knee problems.

"When we were given the information about the injury and the absence, of course it's bad news. But it's good for him because now we can take care of him and go step by step. He's only 21 years old and has many ahead," the coach began by saying.

In that sense, he clarified the importance of taking things calmly, thinking about the long-term effects of each decision. "He has to strive, be a professional footballer... We have to teach him that."

Flick, the first to talk to Gavi after his absence until 2026 was confirmed

Gavi on the Montjuïc bench with Barça.

Similarly, Flick believes that, while it is not easy for any footballer to face injuries of this type, especially when it comes to a player with Gavi's character and passion for Barça, the '6', as the days go by, will assimilate what happened in a better way.

"I woke him up this morning. He was surprised that I called him so early. He has a good mentality, quality, and we will help him return. His heart, attitude, and mentality are top-notch," said the coach from Heidelberg.

In addition, he added: "With this second injury, you have to be very disciplined, recover, do the training... We will help him. But he knows it's not easy, although if anyone can do it, it's him," Gavi was out for eleven months, from November 2023 to October 2024, due to a torn cruciate ligament with meniscus involvement in the same right knee.

"Gavi has a huge heart, lives with great emotion, lives this club... He contributes a lot to us and we will support him to reach his level again"

Now, the player from Los Palacios y Villafranca will be in the infirmary for at least four more months, although this period may be extended until the end of February or the beginning of March 2026, according to his progress. 

Lamine Yamal, out in Oviedo but closer to returning with Barça

Lamine Yamal during the Rayo-Barça (1-1)

Similarly, Flick confirmed the absence of Lamine Yamal against Oviedo. The player from Mataró returned to work on Tuesday at the Ciutat Esportiva, but remains outside the group due to his pubalgia. However, the '10' has improved in recent days and hopes to be ready for Sunday, against Real Sociedad in Montjuïc.

"He will be back soon. He looks good," said the German when referring to the winger's physical condition. In turn, he ruled out hasty decisions regarding his return and that of the rest of the injured players.

"Lamine realizes when he needs to rest. Not only him, Pedri... and the rest too. I don't think about who is missing but about those available," the Azulgrana coach pointed out regarding the absences.

"The player must feel that I believe in everyone. I am happy with my team. When we start each game, each eleven can win"

And, regarding the Ballon d'Or, Flick, true to his custom, expressed his respect for Ousmane Dembélé and optimism for the future of the Azulgrana '10'. "Dembélé also deserved it this year. (Yamal) accepts it and is motivated for what is to come. He will have options to win it."

The possible changes for the Oviedo-Barça match and the pressure from Real Madrid

Regarding the visit to Oviedo, Hansi Flick also confirmed the absence of Alejandro Balde, who is still not fully recovered from his injury in the left thigh. He also stressed the importance of maintaining top intensity against a "very brave" rival that prioritizes defensive order as an initial point to compete.

Due to the injury absences and the demanding schedule, the coach will make rotations again, but not massive ones. "We manage the minutes with the possibilities we have.  There are matches every three or four days. I have the confidence to change because everyone who has played has done so at a great level," argued the coach from Heidelberg.

In addition, he made it clear how he sees Real Madrid this season. The Whites started with a full record of victories in the first six matchdays and put extra pressure on the Azulgrana team to avoid stumbles away from home.

"I don't know how many points will be made. They have made a good start. Last year there were ups and downs, but this League will not be like last year. We have to win our matches and keep moving forward"