Blow for Barcelona! Hansi Flick provides WORRYING Gavi injury update after star leaves Elche clash in tears

Barcelona started their La Liga campaign in dominant fashion with a 5-0 thrashing of Elche on Sunday, but the victory was heavily overshadowed by a concerning injury to Gavi. The Spain international went down in the 44th minute, immediately signalling to the bench that he could not continue. Visibly distressed, the midfielder removed his shin guards and grabbed his right knee before leaving the pitch in tears. He was subsequently replaced by Pedri.

The incident instantly raised alarm bells across the Catalan club, as the issue occurred in the exact same right knee that Gavi severely injured back in November 2023. That previous anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus tear kept him out of action for an extended period, creating serious anxiety over a potential relapse.

Speaking to the media after the resounding victory, Flick confirmed the location of the injury while attempting to ease immediate panic. The German tactician revealed that the player was feeling slightly more optimistic once back in the dressing room.

"Yes, it’s in the knee. We have to wait," Flick told reporters. "It’s a little better than he expected when he got injured. After the game was much better. We will make an MRI and see."

Despite the gloomy injury setback, the head coach was full of praise for his team's overall performance. Flick highlighted their ruthlessness in front of goal as they completely dismantled their opponents on the opening weekend.

"In the first half we had to control the ball a bit more and that's what I want from the team," he added. "We've kept a clean sheet and scored five goals. I love how they play football."

While Gavi's withdrawal dampened the mood, Barcelona's attacking display provided plenty of encouragement for their title defence.

Anthony Gordon made a spectacular immediate impact following his move from Newcastle. Coming off the bench, the England international produced two assists in a devastating five-minute spell, instantly matching his entire Premier League assist tally from last season.

Fellow debutant Karim Adeyemi also managed to get on the scoresheet, capping off a perfect attacking performance for the Blaugrana as they ruthlessly put Elche to the sword.

Barcelona now face an incredibly nervous wait as Gavi undergoes MRI scans to determine the true extent of his knee problem. The club's medical staff will be desperate for positive news, hoping to avoid another long-term absence for the academy graduate.

On the pitch, Flick's side must quickly regroup as they prepare for a swift turnaround. The Catalan giants will welcome Athletic Club to Camp Nou on Thursday evening, aiming to build upon their impressive opening-day momentum while navigating their first major injury hurdle of the campaign.