Gavi, a midfielder from Spain, has responded forcefully to those who say he lacks technical aptitude and is only a physical player.  His comments were made prior to the highly anticipated first leg of the team’s quarterfinal matchup with Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League.

Barcelona is preparing for their difficult match against Dortmund as the Champions League nears its exciting conclusion.  The Germans are the current runners-up in the European competition, despite their poor performance in their home league.  Hansi Flick, the coach of Dortmund, has complete faith in his team and thinks they will solve problems in every part of the game.  But Flick also knows that the match won’t be easy because his squad is up against a confident opponent.

Not everyone ignores Flick’s reconnection with Niko Kovac.  Knowing Kovac from their mutual German football experiences may prove advantageous.  However, Flick stresses how crucial it is to maintain your sense of reality.  “I’m not sure if I have an advantage because I know him.  I give that some thought.  Knowing Niko is pleasant and can improve our readiness.  I’m excited to play against him because he is a wonderful person,” Flick said.  Two managers that are well acquainted with one another should make for an exciting tactical duel.

Barcelona has a rigorous schedule that combines league games with important European commitments.  Flick, however, is unfazed and believes his team can manage it effectively.  “I am happy that I have a variety of players who can perform in different positions, but we must evaluate the players’ readiness depending on exhaustion.  The Blaugrana coach said, “We can handle the schedule well; it won’t overwhelm us.”  In order to stay fresh during this pivotal time of the season, the squad’s depth is essential.

Flick also recognized the German team’s apparent progress in recent games, which he attributed to the confidence they had garnered from their performance.  “They have improved as a result of their recent results, which have increased their self-belief.  We will need to match their intensity since they are a fast-paced, offensive club,” he said.

 A stark warning: Barcelona needs to perform at their peak in order to defeat a confident Dortmund team.

Young midfielder Gavi, meantime, is on a good personal trajectory following a protracted and difficult injury.  He said at a press conference that he is happy to be back on the field and that he feels trusted by the coaching staff.  “Hansi and I have a strong bond.  He knows how difficult it was for me to return after a year out due to my injuries.  But for me, this season has been amazing.  “Hansi has faith in me, and I feel at ease,” he smiled.  The coach’s encouragement and Gavi’s own spirit of competition have been crucial to his comeback.

Gavi has demonstrated his versatility, which he values, in a variety of midfield roles.  He can contribute in a variety of ways on the field due to his versatility, something Flick is eager to take advantage of.  “I believe that being able to play in any midfield position is a valuable quality.  I am more of an attacking midfielder in the eyes of the boss.  In every position I play, I get better every day,” the Spanish player declared.  His development is continuous, and he is keen to keep improving wherever the team most needs him.

Gavi also reaffirmed his affection for the team and his wish to stay for a long time.  “I would want to, of course, but that’s football; you never know.  He revealed, “I would sign today to retire here if it were up to me.”  This statement may give supporters hope that the young Spanish midfielder will play a starting position.