Barcelona Still Consider Gavi a Key Player Despite His Lack of Minutes Under Hansi Flick
Barcelona continue to regard Gavi as an important member of their squad despite the midfielder struggling to secure regular playing time under Hansi Flick during the 2026/27 campaign.
The season has been challenging for several players who have found it difficult to break into Flick’s settled starting lineup. Alejandro Balde is among those facing uncertainty over his role, with reports suggesting the left-back could consider leaving in January.
Gavi is experiencing a similar situation. The 22-year-old La Masia graduate has barely featured this season and has reportedly become frustrated with his limited involvement under the German manager.
However, his reduced playing time has not changed Barcelona’s view of his long-term importance to the team.
Barcelona Continue to Count on Gavi
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona still consider Gavi an important player despite his limited opportunities this season.
There is therefore no indication that the club are preparing to discuss a potential departure for the midfielder, who remains highly regarded within the squad.
Gavi’s statistics this season underline how difficult it has been for him to establish himself in Flick’s plans.
He has played just 191 minutes across seven appearances in all competitions, starting only twice. Although a minor injury forced him to miss a couple of matches, he has also been an unused substitute in five La Liga fixtures.
The midfielder did not feature at all in Barcelona’s previous two matches against Real Madrid and Deportivo Alavés.
For a player who has previously been an influential figure in the team, the lack of opportunities represents a significant change in circumstances.
Fierce Competition Makes a Starting Place Difficult
Gavi’s situation is largely explained by the competition for places in Barcelona’s midfield.
Pedri remains one of Flick’s most trusted players and continues to occupy a central role in the team. Summer signing Rodri has also established himself as the manager’s preferred partner for the Spanish international.
Meanwhile, Marc Bernal has impressed when given opportunities, while Fermín López has become a regular option in the attacking midfield position.
The return of Frenkie de Jong from injury is another factor that could make it more difficult for Gavi to secure consistent minutes.
With several midfielders competing for a limited number of starting positions, Flick has had to make difficult selection decisions.
Nevertheless, Barcelona's continued confidence in Gavi suggests that the club do not view his current situation as a reason to consider selling him.
What Flick Has Said About Gavi
Flick addressed Gavi’s situation during his press conference ahead of Barcelona’s UEFA Champions League match against Aston Villa.
The German coach acknowledged the midfielder’s quality and insisted that he remains an option, even if circumstances during matches sometimes prevent him from making the changes he initially considers.
“We all know his quality and Gavi is always an option, but once the match starts that option might disappear and you can’t always stick to your initial plan,” Flick said.
The Barcelona manager also revealed that he had spoken directly with the midfielder about his situation.
“I’ve spoken to him and the important thing is that he has confidence,” he added.
Flick’s comments indicate that Gavi remains part of his thinking, even though the midfielder has struggled to translate that status into regular appearances.
Gavi’s Barcelona Future Remains Important
The coming weeks could prove significant in determining whether Gavi can earn a more prominent role in the team.
Barcelona have several options in midfield, and the competition is unlikely to become less intense with De Jong back from injury. However, Gavi's technical ability, energy and experience at a relatively young age continue to make him a valuable option.
For now, the club's position appears clear: limited playing time does not mean they have lost confidence in the 22-year-old.
Gavi will need to make the most of the opportunities that come his way, while Flick must find a way to manage a competitive midfield group.
Whether his involvement increases as the season progresses remains to be seen, but Barcelona are not treating him as a player they are prepared to let go.