Florentino Perez sends letter to Gavi following ACL injury
- Barcelona midfielder Gavi likely out for season following ACL tear
- Complex knee injury that also damaged his meniscus sustained on Spain duty
- Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has sent his condolences
By Sean Walsh
Real Madrid club president Florentino Perez sent a letter to Barcelona midfielder Gavi wishing him the best after he suffered an ACL tear.
Gavi was substituted early on in Spain's 3-1 win over Georgia in Euro 2024 qualifying on Sunday night after awkwardly twisting his knee, leaving the pitch in tears having immediately realised the severity of the issue.
After returning to his club to undergo medical checks, Barcelona confirmed on Monday that Gavi had torn his right ACL and suffered damage to his meniscus, effectively ruling him out for the rest of the season.
ESPN report that Madrid chief Perez sent a letter in the name of the club to Gavi to offer their condolences and sympathy after hearing the news.
Perez's actions come after Madrid stars Dani Carvajal and Joselu wished Gavi well on social media.
Carvajal wrote: "[Club] rivals and [international] teammates, but above all, people. You will come back much stronger, my friend."
Joselu posted: "You are a fantastic kid and you're going to come through this with bravery and courage - we are all supporting you."
Gavi had played 111 out of 121 games for Barcelona in all competitions after making his senior debut in 2021, while he has also been capped 27 times by Spain. Having only turned 19 in August, both his club and country have been criticised for overworking Gavi.
Barcelona are already struggling in their attempt to retain their La Liga title, heading into the November international break four points adrift of surprise leaders Girona and two points behind Madrid.
Xavi's side return to action on Saturday with a tricky visit to Rayo Vallecano, before resuming their Champions League campaign on Tuesday when Porto make the trip to Catalonia.
In Gavi's absence, Barcelona have been linked with moves for La Masia academy graduate Thiago Alcantara and long-term target Giovani Lo Celso of Tottenham Hotspur.
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