La Liga giants Barcelona have confirmed that midfielder Fermín has suffered an injury to his left iliopsoas muscle and is expected to be out for around three weeks.
Up next, Barcelona face Real Oviedo away on Friday, host Real Sociedad the following Monday, and then meet defending champions Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on October 2.
Fermín Injured, Olmo Steps Up
Fermín’s absence opens the door for Dani Olmo to feature regularly. In the match against Getafe, Olmo delivered an outstanding performance.
A product of La Masia, Olmo is not only one of the best at breaking up opposition plays in midfield but also a player with a keen eye for goal. Against Getafe, he found the net from a Rashford assist and also set up Ferran Torres with a brilliant backheel pass.
If all goes to plan, Olmo will be the first-choice replacement. However, coach Hansi Flick has another option: shifting Raphinha into the attacking midfield role. Flick has tried a similar setup before, but with Yamal sidelined, this adjustment remains highly limited.
Raphinha’s Tactical Role
Raphinha is not expected to feature against Real Oviedo but could return in time to face Real Sociedad, using that match as preparation for the Champions League. With Lamine unavailable, Raphinha is currently deployed primarily on the right wing.
Once Yamal is back in action, Raphinha could move into the central attacking midfield role, while Rashford shifts to the left flank, a system already seen earlier this season against Levante.
Gavi’s Long-Term Setback
Meanwhile, Barcelona also confirmed that rising star Gavi has torn the medial meniscus in his right knee and has undergone surgery. He is expected to be sidelined for four to five months, meaning he will not return until at least February 2025.
According to the club’s statement, Gavi underwent arthroscopic surgery on Tuesday afternoon, during which the medial meniscus in his right knee was sutured. Worryingly, doctors discovered the damage was more severe than initially anticipated, forcing an expanded procedure and extending his recovery time far beyond the original one to two months.
Flick’s Dilemma and Team Blow
This is a heavy blow for both the player and the club. The surgery was once again performed by Dr Monllau, the same surgeon who carried out Gavi’s ACL reconstruction two years ago, highlighting the complexity of the situation.
Upon learning that the injury was more serious than expected, Gavi reportedly broke down emotionally, fully aware that he faces another lengthy spell away from the pitch, putting his World Cup hopes in jeopardy.
For head coach Hansi Flick, this represents a significant setback. Gavi is a key piece in Barça’s midfield puzzle, and his absence will severely impact the squad’s depth and tactical flexibility across La Liga and the Champions League. Reports suggest Flick was among the most devastated upon receiving the news.
With both Fermín and Gavi sidelined, Barcelona’s midfield rotation now faces a stern test. Flick must find solutions within a limited roster.
