Gavi: The Young Midfield Maestro of FC Barcelona and Spain

Gavi, born Pablo Páez Gavira on August 5, 2004, in Los Palacios y Villafranca, Seville, has rapidly emerged as one of the most exciting talents in Spanish football. This dynamic midfielder currently shines for FC Barcelona in Spain’s Primera División and is a vital player for the Spanish national team.

Early Promise and Barcelona’s Call

Gavi began his football journey at his local club, La Liara Balompié, before joining the Real Betis academy. His exceptional talent was evident early on, scoring an impressive 96 goals for the U-12 team. This caught the attention of top Spanish clubs, including Villarreal, Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, and ultimately, FC Barcelona, which he joined at just 11 years old in 2015.

Rising Through the Ranks at Camp Nou

In September 2020, Gavi signed his first professional contract with FC Barcelona, quickly progressing from the cadet to the youth team. His impactful performances led to a call-up for first-team preseason friendlies in 2021, where he drew comparisons to club legend Xavi Hernández, who would later become his coach.

First-Team Debut and Breakthrough

Gavi made his official debut for FC Barcelona in La Liga on August 29, 2021, in a 2-1 victory over Getafe. His UEFA Champions League debut followed on September 14 against Bayern Munich. On December 18, he scored his first senior goal against Elche in a league match.

A Star Secured: Contract Renewal and Awards

On September 14, 2022, Gavi solidified his future at FC Barcelona, signing a contract extension until June 2026 with a staggering €1 billion release clause. This move also saw him officially become a first-team player. His incredible year was further recognized when he won the Kopa Trophy at the 2022 Ballon d’Or gala, acknowledging him as the best U21 player, and the prestigious Golden Boy Award.

Winning Titles and Overcoming Challenges

Gavi celebrated his first major title with FC Barcelona on January 15, 2023, defeating Real Madrid 3-1 in the Spanish Supercopa. He was named MVP of the match, becoming the youngest goalscorer in the tournament’s history while also providing two assists. Four months later, he lifted his first La Liga title with the Blaugrana. Unfortunately, in November 2023, Gavi suffered a significant injury during a Euro qualifying match for Spain, sidelining him for the remainder of the season.

He made a triumphant return to play on October 20, 2024, after 335 days out, coming on as a substitute against Sevilla FC and even wearing the captain’s armband.

International Recognition and Milestones

Gavi has proudly represented Spain at various youth levels. On September 30, 2021, he received his first call-up to the senior national team. His debut on October 6 against Italy in the UEFA Nations League semifinals made him the youngest player in Spanish history to play for the senior squad, at 17 years and 62 days old.

On June 5, 2022, Gavi scored his first international goal against the Czech Republic in the UEFA Nations League, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Spanish national team history at 17 years and 304 days, surpassing Ansu Fati.

During his World Cup debut on November 23, 2022, against Costa Rica, Gavi became the second-youngest player to score in a World Cup at 18 years and 110 days, a feat only surpassed by Pelé. In 2023, he helped Spain win the UEFA Nations League and secure qualification for Euro 2024 with a crucial goal against Norway. Despite suffering another injury in the qualification phase, preventing his participation in Euro 2024, Gavi returned to the national team in June 2025 for the UEFA Nations League semifinals.