Are Real Madrid scared of Barcelona? Gavi says Clasico rivals 'understandably worried' after unprecedented humiliation by Hansi Flick's men last season

Barcelona were the undisputed kings of Spanish football last season, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de Espana. To make matters worse, they completely overpowered their fierce rivals in head-to-head meetings. In La Liga, Hansi Flick's men demolished Madrid 4-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu and then came from two goals down to win 4-3 when they met in Catalunya. Barca also came from behind to win 5-2 in the Supercopa final, scoring four goals in the first-half and having goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny sent off. They needed extra time to complete the treble, though, winning 3-2 in a closely fought match.

Madrid have spent big in the summer window to strengthen their squad ahead of next season. Alongside new coach Xabi Alonso, the likes of Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono, Alvaro Carreras and Trent Alexander-Arnold have all come in. This, Gavi says, shows that they are motivated to avoid further humiliation at the hands of the Catalan giants again in 2025-26.

When asked if Madrid’s summer spending spree suggests they are anxious to avoid a repeat of last season's humiliation, Gavi told AS: “Of course, they’re worried. It was four out of four, and that’s never happened before. And it’s understandable that they’re worried. In the end, we were spectacular last season and they didn’t win anything. This year they’ve reinforced themselves with some very good players, to be honest, but we’ll see what they’ll do this season. They have a great team, but we have to be ourselves, and that’s it.”

Gavi feels Barca's midfield is particularly strong, saying he is ready to fight for his place after missing the start of last season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

"We have some of the best midfielders in the world," he said. "I can play in several positions, and I think that says a lot about me. I'm a very complete player. The competition is very tough, and there are some very good players. The manager will decide, but it's clear that it will be difficult to be a starter because the level is high."

The young midfielder will be pushing for a starting place when the season kicks off, especially after showing his fitness and leadership on the pre-season tour.

"I'm feeling better and better. I was already in very good form at the end of last season, and this season I hope to give my best to the team. That's what I want," he added.