Barcelona €80 million-rated midfield star a serious doubt to face Valencia – report

Barcelona will be gunning for a spot in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey when they lock horns with Valencia in the quarter-final clash on Thursday at Mestalla.

Heading up to the match, it is expected that the Blaugrana will recover key attacking midfielder Dani Olmo who has recovered from his injury and resumed training with the group this week.

However, there are question marks about the availability of another important player.

Gavi a major doubt

Indeed, according to journalist Adria Albets, Gavi is a serious doubt for tomorrow’s Copa del Rey clash between Barcelona and Valencia.

The 20-year-old La Masia sensation suffered a head injury during the Catalans’ last game against Deportivo Alaves on Sunday, leading to him being substituted and taken off to the hospital.

While there are no major concerns, Barcelona are not willing to take any risks with the Spanish international.

Gavi was not part of the group training session yesterday and instead did some work inside the gym.

The idea of the club is to proceed with extreme caution and as things stand, within the dressing room, the belief is that he might not be ready to return to action against Valencia.

The final decision will be up to manager Hansi Flick and the medical staff, but as things stand, there appear to be major doubts about the midfielder’s availability.

Gavi returned to action after nearly a year out and has gradually grown into one of Flick’s most key players, racking up two goals and three assists in 21 appearances.

Given the important stretch of matches coming up ahead, it would make sense for Barcelona to not rush things with the youngster – more so with Olmo set to return.

Flick also has Fermin Lopez and Pablo Torre waiting in the wings to fill in. As such, the chances of Gavi appearing against Valencia are likely very slim.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.