Gavi

Gavi (knee) was expected to make the squad for Saturday's clash against Athletic Club although he wasn't expected to play but ultimately wasn't included, the club posted.

Gavi (knee) will make the matchday squad for Saturday's clash against Athletic Club but will not play yet, according to coach Hansi Flick, per Alfredo Martinez from Onda Cero Radio. "Gavi will travel with the team to Bilbao and Newcastle but will not play yet."

Gavi (knee) has been training with the team for several weeks now and is nearing a return in the matchday squad that should happen within the coming fixtures, the club posted.

Gavi (knee) was back in team training this week and is aiming a return to the match squad in two to three weeks although his return will be carefully managed by the staff, coach Hansi Flick commented in the press conference, according to Marca. "Step by step. In this situation, it's very important to manage it step by step. Besides, he's always very involved and, with the ball, he almost always makes the best decision. He enjoys playing football, not only because of his mentality, but also because of his technique and quality. I hope he'll be back very soon. But, step by step. We'll work on it every day. Everyone who's helping him is doing a fantastic job."

Gavi (knee) resumed partial team training Friday and begins his final phase of recovery, the club posted.