By Yobel Petros ’24
Barcelona and Spain’s National team’s young midfield sensation, Pablo Martín Páez Gavira (known as Gavi), is on the sidelines after tearing his cruciate ligament. The incident occurred when Gavi suffered a push when he was challenged by Georgia’s Luka Lochoshvili in the 20th minute but carried on playing. Three minutes later, he was trying to control a pass when he was suddenly subbed out for good.
My Assessment of the Injury
The cruciate ligaments, which crisscross inside the knee, are essential for the knee’s movement and stability. These ligaments control the knee as it pivots, bends, and bears the body’s weight, especially in sports. Gavi’s injury affects the ligament’s ability to stabilize the knee. His rehabilitation will be extensive due to the ligament’s significance in knee mechanics. After surgical repair, his recovery will likely include knee strengthening exercises, balance training, and gradual return-to-play practices. The goal is to rebuild the ligament’s strength and ensure the knee can handle athletic stress again.
Who I Think Will Fulfill Gavi’s Position
As Gavi focuses on healing, Barcelona’s head coach Xavi will need to find his substitute. One of the highly regarded staff members, Deco, is hoping to buy a new midfielder in this upcoming transfer window; however, Xavi doesn’t think it is needed. I feel that they will utilize his teammate, Gundogan, more, since his skills are similar to Gavi’s and he is even more experienced at 33. I also feel like he could help maintain the team’s rhythm in midfield.
Sources
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries – orthoinfo – aaos. OrthoInfo Available at https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/anterior-cruciate-ligament-acl-injuries/ (verified 27 November 2023).