Spain supervisor Luis de la Fuente has rejected claims he overworked Gavi after the Barcelona midfielder suffered what’s feared to be a season-ending harm in Sunday’s victory over Georgia.
De la Fuente’s facet had already certified for Euro 2024 and had nothing to play for in the course of the recreation, earlier than which the Spain boss rejected recommendations he ought to relaxation a few of his greater names.
Particularly referencing Gavi earlier than the match, De la Fuente stated: “Gavi is hyperactive, he by no means needs to cease. You simply have to observe him prepare. He all the time needs to play. Good gamers by no means relaxation. When the leagues finish, they play the Euros, World Cups, Olympics… Good gamers are particular for that motive, solely those that are excellent can maintain that tempo. You must measure these efforts, however Gavi is bodily gifted.”
De la Fuente’s phrases got here again to chunk him simply 26 minutes into the match as Gavi collapsed to the turf in actual ache, and it was instantly believed that the 19-year-old midfielder had suffered a severe knee harm.
Experiences have prompt Barcelona are livid with De la Fuente for enjoying Gavi in such an unimportant fixture, with Xavi’s facet now shedding a key star for what may find yourself being the whole marketing campaign.
Pressed on his pre-match feedback on Gavi after the sport, De la Fuente stated: “I perceive Barca’s complaints, however, if it wasn’t Gavi, it may have occurred to another person.
“This will occur in a La Liga match, in coaching or in any state of affairs. Typically we do not realise the danger that every second entails if you put in your boots. It was an accident, a misfortune, however Gavi was completely able to play.”
He added: “Now I am not even desirous about the Euros, with all due respect, not even the Olympics, solely the well being of the footballer.”
Gavi’s harm sparks apparent comparisons to the bodily struggles of teammate Pedri who, after an aggressive introduction to senior soccer, has routinely battled muscle accidents for the reason that begin of the 2021/22 season.
