Spain Boss Luis de la Fuente Hits Out at Barcelona Following Gavi’s Injury

• Barcelona star Pablo Gavi recently suffered cruciate ligament damage
• The young midfielder is expected to be out for the rest of the season
• Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has hit out at Barcelona after the injury

Spain’s final Euro 2024 qualifying match against Georgia at the Jose Zorilla Stadium was overshadowed by the unfortunate injury suffered by Pablo Gavi.

The Barcelona midfielder fell to the ground, clutching his knee without any challenge, in the 22nd minute. This occurred just seven minutes after he had received a blow to the same knee from Cremonese's Luka Luchoshovili.

According to ESPN, the 19-year-old midfielder has been diagnosed with cruciate ligament damage and is expected to be sidelined for a minimum of eight months.

Reports from Mundo Deportivo indicate that Barcelona is deeply displeased with Gavi's injury and accusatory fingers are being pointed at coach, Luis de la Fuente.

Liverpool Konate speaks on his prospect of joining Ligue 1 giant PSG

Football

However, the 62-year-old manager seems frustrated by the criticism and has responded to reports that the club blames him for the young midfielder's injury.

De la Fuente on Barcelona's displeasure

De la Fuente addressed Barcelona's grievances in a statement to the media, as quoted by Metro UK:

"I recognize Barca's concerns, but if not Gavi, it could have happened to anyone. Such incidents can occur in a La Liga match, during training, or in any circumstance. Often, people underestimate the risks inherent in every moment, from the time you lace up your boots. It was an unfortunate accident, but Gavi was fully prepared to play."

When questioned about the potential impact of the injury on Gavi's participation in the upcoming Euros and the Paris Olympics, the La Roja boss replied:

"Right now, I'm not even contemplating the European Championships, with all due respect. My sole focus is on the player's health."

Jude Bellingham’s shoulder dislocation stirs mixed responses from Real Madrid fans

Football

Reflecting on Gavi's injury and the team's reaction to the unfortunate incident, the Spain manager shared:

"This is the most challenging, disheartening, and difficult day of my career. It's a tough moment for the player, Barcelona, the RFEF [Spain's FA], and for me personally."

De la Fuente said despite the win, the injury loomed over Spain's locker room like a defeat, describing the situation as a sombre occasion.

"Football has its share of such moments; it's a risky activity, and this is the unpleasant side.

I feel deeply sorry for Gavi. We've spoken with him. The impact had nothing to do with it. The damage occurred during a control manoeuvre where he was turning; he landed awkwardly, and his knee gave way."

The national coach said the midfielder was upset and confused about why this had happened to him, offering some of his insight:

"Sometimes, we may think we're invincible, but life teaches us how incredibly fragile we are," he concluded.

Analyzing Xavi’s poor Champions League record as Barcelona manager after Shakhtar defeat

Football

Exciting news! We have a WhatsApp channel 🤩

➡️ Click to join our channel for all your favourite sports news.

Joselu's message to Gavi

Sports Brief also reported on Real Madrid striker, Joselu Mato sending Gavi a lovely message after his injury.

The Los Blancos' goal-scorer took to his Instagram account to cheer up and encourage the Barcelona star.

"We are with you, Gavi. You will come back stronger than ever," Joselu proclaimed.