Gavi scored the first goal, the one that opened the scoring for Barça's thrashing of Betis (1-5). Gavi solved the match in just a few minutes and allowed his teammates to play with the comfort of a favorable score.
His performance fills Hansi Flick with satisfaction. The German coach feared he wouldn't be the same again. After all, his injury had kept him off the field for almost a year.
However, that unfortunate injury is now history. Gavi is back to being the same player the blaugrana fans remember, with the same drive, grit, intensity, and commitment.
This is how he expressed himself at the end of the match that places Barça in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey. Gavi finished the game feeling euphoric, aware of the step forward Barça has taken in the last two matches.
First Messi, Then Lamine Yamal
-"I've really enjoyed playing with my teammates, we had a good time."
-"Behind Leo Messi, Lamine Yamal is the best player"
"After the injury, I've played several very good matches and that's what's important. I have to play without fear and that's my mentality in every game."
"About Araújo, I can't tell you anything because I don't know. The culés have to stay calm. Many journalists make things up, and the truth is that Araújo wants to stay at Barça and I trust he will."
"It's very comfortable for me to play as an attacking midfielder, especially because of the teammates I have. Whatever the coach decides will be well decided."
"Facing Real Madrid?"
"I've finished with a knock on my left knee, but it's nothing. Just a knock. I'm happy to keep adding minutes."
"Our goal is to win all possible titles for the club this season"
"Facing Real Madrid in Copa del Rey? I don't care if it's in the quarterfinals or the final. We are going to win as we always do."
"I don't think the slump in November and December was due to the team's play. It was because of the goals, the ball just wouldn't go in, but we deserved to win all the matches. We have to score like today, stay calm, and enjoy the game."