Barcelona's midfield without Gavi is a different proposition. The young Spanish international has now been absent for 22 matches, and his influence is missed in ways that go beyond statistics.
Gavi brings an intensity and fearlessness that few midfielders can match. His pressing, his willingness to receive the ball under pressure, and his ability to drive the team forward are qualities that cannot simply be coached into a replacement.
Barcelona have coped by adjusting their midfield combinations, but the absence is felt most in the high-intensity matches against direct rivals. Those are the games where Gavi's competitive spirit makes the biggest difference.
The medical team are managing his return carefully. Rushing back a young player from a long-term injury would be counterproductive. Barcelona know that Gavi's best years are ahead of him, and protecting his long-term health takes priority over short-term results.
When he does return, he will add a dimension that Barcelona have lacked. The countdown to his comeback is one of the most anticipated storylines in La Liga this season.