Substitution after half-time: How Hansi Flick plans to utilise Gavi vs Celta Vigo

Today is going to be a big day for Gavi. After recovering from a serious injury, the midfielder has mostly played 10-minute cameos for Barcelona this season.

The lack of game-time has understandably left the youngster frustrated, but Barcelona remain firm, as they look to avoid any unnecessary injuries.

However, Barcelona believe Gavi is ready to take the next step, with the player reportedly set to start against Celta Vigo tonight.

The international break has given Gavi some valuable time to recover further and it appears he is not in a position to start a game.

Barcelona have their guard up

However, as reported by Diario SPORT, just because Gavi may start against Celta Vigo doesn’t mean he is ready to play the full ninety minutes and play regularly every three days.

In fact, Barcelona will tread with utmost caution even today, with Gavi likely to be subbed in the first few minutes of the second half.

Gavi is likely to be subbed off minutes into the second half (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Flick has no desire to keep Gavi on for too long, as the German continues to obey the strict and cautious note given by the Barcelona doctors.

Moreover, Gavi’s participation tonight could confirm his absence against Brest in midweek, at least as far as the starting eleven is concerned.

Barcelona’s plan is to hand more game-time to Gavi than they were giving earlier in the season. There is hope that the midfielder will eventually pick up the pace and become a regular starter.

For now, though, Gavi’s focus will be on the big match against Celta Vigo, as the young midfielder looks to make a telling impact at Balaidos – a ground that hasn’t historically favoured Barcelona.