Barcelona are looking to make it three wins from three when they take on Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, but they will be without a key player for the trip to the south of Madrid.

It has been a relatively positive period for Barcelona in terms of injuries, with only Marc Bernal being out injured for Hansi Flick’s side. Robert Lewandowski recovered quicker than expected from a blow sustained during pre-season, while Dani Olmo has – for now – overcome his physical problems.

However, a new issue has struck. As revealed by Barcelona in a medical report posted to X, Gavi is suffering with discomfort in his knee, which has meant that he will not be included in the matchday squad to face Rayo this weekend.

“Pablo Páez Gaviria, “Gavi”, has discomfort in his right knee. He is out for Sunday’s match against Rayo and his recovery will determine his availability.”

Gavi has also withdrawn from Spain squad

Barcelona have not made it known how long Gavi will be unavailable for, but given that it is discomfort, there will be hope that he returns after the international break – which he will now play no part in. As per MD, it has also been decided that the 21-year-old will not join up with Luis de la Fuente’s squad, having been included in Friday’s list.

It makes a lot of sense for Barcelona – and Spain – to take no chances with Gavi. He tore his ACL less than two years ago, so there will be extreme caution taken with any knee injury he sustains. It’s disappointing for him not be involved against Rayo, Bulgaria or Türkiye, but the cautiousness is very much understandable.

The plan will likely be for Gavi to return in two weeks’ time when Barcelona are pencilled in to host Valencia in their first match back at the Spotify Camp Nou, but it remains to be seen whether he does return at this time.