Coaching staff maintain full confidence in Barcelona fan-favourite despite decline in playing time | OneFootball

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has seen his role in the team change in recent weeks, raising questions about his current form and standing within the squad.

Despite being a regular starter after regaining full fitness, his progress appears to have slowed, though the coaching staff and club management remain fully supportive of him, reports AS.

At one point, Gavi was an undisputed starter in Barcelona’s midfield, taking advantage of injuries and squad rotations.

During that period, the young midfielder made the most of his opportunities, proving he was in top shape and capable of maintaining consistency in his performances.

However, since the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah, his influence on the pitch seems to have diminished.

A diminished role

Recent matches have highlighted this shift. Against Alaves, he was forced to leave the pitch early due to a head injury, which then saw him omitted from the squad list for the Copa del Rey clash against Valencia.

He returned to the starting XI against Sevilla but was taken off at half-time after receiving a yellow card.

Gavi has failed to break into the starting XI. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

A similar scenario unfolded against Rayo Vallecano, where he was substituted in the 65th minute to avoid the risk of a second booking.

His situation became more concerning when he remained on the bench for the entire match against Las Palmas and was once again named a substitute in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid.

The current starters

Currently, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are essential in Barcelona’s midfield, making them untouchable in Hansi Flick’s tactical plans. The third midfield position is highly competitive, with several strong candidates vying for it.

Dani Olmo, the club’s marquee signing of the season, has impressed with his passing, attacking instinct, and goal-scoring ability. Additionally, Fermin Lopez has shown his resilience and hunger to fight for a spot, making it a tough battle for Gavi.

Despite this shift in his role, Flick continues to recognise Gavi’s qualities—his relentless work rate, pressing intensity, and ability to contribute goals from midfield.

While he is going through a challenging phase, what he needs most is to regain confidence and adapt to the minutes given to him, whether as a starter or coming off the bench.