Barcelona sensation Gavi is set to earn his 25th cap for the Spanish national team tonight as they seek a victory in Norway to secure their place in the Euro 2024 competition next summer. Should they only manage a draw or suffer a defeat, the qualification process will extend to November.
Gavi is anticipated to maintain his position in Luis de la Fuente’s midfield during this fixture, following his full 90-minute performance in the 2-0 midweek triumph over Scotland in Sevilla. The 19-year-old has been in the starting lineup for four out of Spain’s five qualifiers in 2023, playing a crucial role in their qualification quest.
However, Gavi’s remarkable ascent for both his club and the national team has been accompanied by a reputation for aggressive tackling and fouls, resulting in a growing tally of yellow cards. In his debut season with Barcelona’s first team in 2021/22, he accumulated 16 yellow cards, including a red card resulting from a double caution.
His yellow card count decreased to 15 in 2022/23, with an additional three cards earned in three games for Spain. Already in 2023/24, he has received six yellow cards, including another red card from a second booking in the 1-0 Champions League victory over Porto.
Gavi is now closely watched by officials, particularly at the club level. Nevertheless, de la Fuente is confident that this is not a concern for the national team.
Regarding Gavi’s disciplinary record with the national team, de la Fuente stated, “Gavi’s card count with the National Team is low; they’ve only shown him one yellow card in the qualifiers. Gavi’s energy uplifts the team, and while he must learn to control himself, he manages to do so with us. We are very composed and delighted with what Gavi brings to our squad.”