Barcelona midfielder Gavi will be called up to Spain's 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His strong performance since returning from injury has earned him this opportunity.
Barcelona fan-favourite midfielder will be called up by Spain for the World Cup
According to AS, Barcelona midfielder Gavi will be included in Luis de la Fuente’s final 26-man Spain squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Having spent a large chunk of the season out injured, the La Masia graduate has enjoyed a strong run of form since returning in March. And, it has been seemingly enough for him to secure a spot on the plane to North America.
From spending 192 days sidelined with a devastating knee injury that needed him to undergo surgery, to becoming a key figure in securing the La Liga title, Gavi has now climbed back onto the World Cup train just in time.
The Barcelona midfielder’s inclusion would be a reward for patience, trust and performances.
Gavi had been a cornerstone player for both Luis Enrique and De la Fuente in the Spain setup before the nightmare ACL injury struck in November 2023.
Gavi will be on the flight for the World Cup. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
While he briefly returned to the Spain setup during the 2025 Nations League campaign after recovering, another setback followed in the form of the knee injury that needed arthroscopic surgery.
A fresh ordeal. But one he has emerged from stronger than before. Since returning from injury, Gavi has once again re-established himself as a permanent fixture in Flick’s Barcelona, playing a key role in the final leg of the season.
Gavi is being called up due to his strong form since returning from injury, which has impressed the coaching staff.
Gavi is one of the players included in Luis de la Fuente's final 26-man squad for the tournament.
Gavi spent a significant part of the season injured, but his recovery and performance since March were crucial for his World Cup selection.

See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
With important players like Frenkie de Jong and Raphinha unavailable, the 21-year-old La Masia graduate has stepped up and delivered in a big way in recent weeks.
Now, after re-establishing himself as an indispensable part of Flick’s Barcelona, Gavi is set to be included in the Spain squad for the World Cup.
And he will not be alone from the Barcelona dressing room to be called up. As reported, Joan Garcia is also expected to be included, while the likes of Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal are regulars in the La Roja setup.