Barcelona's Gavi to have surgery on torn ACL suffered in Spain’s 3-1 win over Georgia - ‘The ugly part of football’

Barcelona have confirmed midfielder Gavi is to have an operation on a serious right knee injury, after tests showed he has a "complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament" as well as meniscus damage.

The teenager left the pitch in tears after he was substituted in the 26th minute of Spain’s 3-1 win over Georgia in Euro 2024 qualifying in Valladolid.

Luis de la Fuente’s side had already reached next summer’s tournament in Germany, but they secured top spot in Group A as goals from Robin le Normand and Ferran Torres, along with an own goal from Luca Lochohvili, secured the victory. Gavi's injury will raise doubts about whether he will play any part in the Euros next summer, given his recovery time is likely to be lengthy.

"Tests carried out on Monday morning on the first team player Gavi have shown that he has a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and an associated injury to the lateral meniscus," said Barcelona in a statement.

"The player will have surgery in the coming days after which a new medical update will be released."

Spain's coaching staff and players were visibly distraught after the game, with De la Fuente particularly concerned.

“It is a very difficult moment for Gavi, Barcelona, the national team and for me,” he said.

“It seems as if we have lost the game. This is the ugly part of football, I am very sorry. This is the most bitter victory I have ever experienced in my life.

“He was hurt, sad; sometimes we feel invulnerable and that is not the case.

“Football is a risky activity and sometimes we forget that. It was a misfortune, but Gavi was perfectly fit to play the game.”

Gavi was making his 19th appearance for club and country this season, but it now appears he will be out of action for some time. The midfielder has become a key member of both sides since making his first-team debut at the age of 17 in August 2021.

Spain will be among the top seeds when the Euro 2024 draw is made on December 2.

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