Gavi says it is understandable that Real Madrid have felt the need to strengthen this summer given the scale of Barcelona’s superiority last season.
Barca beat Madrid in all four Clasico meetings, including in the final of the Copa del Rey and Supercopa, scoring 16 goals in the process.
The Catalans ended up with a domestic double while Madrid were left empty-handed for the first time in four years.
Real Madrid busy to bridge gap to Barcelona
Los Blancos have made moves to tip the scales back in their favour with coach Carlo Ancelotti leaving for the Brazil national team to be replaced by Xabi Alonso.
They have also signed Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras while highly rated teenager Franco Mastantuono will arrive from River Plate in mid-August.
Gavi told AS: “Of course they are worried. It was four out of four [last season] and that had never happened in history. It is logical they are worried.
“In the end, last season we were spectacular and they didn’t win anything. This summer they have been reinforced with very good players – that’s the truth – but we will see what they do this season.
“They have a great team but we must be us.”
Gavi backs Yamal and Dro to shine
Lamine Yamal will be key once again for Barca with the Spain winger having a mixed summer that has seen him hit the headlines for his off-field activities but also sign a new, six-year deal at Camp Nou.
Despite being just 18, Yamal is among the favourites to land the Ballon d’Or for his achievements with club and country.
“I hope he wins it,” added Gavi. “If he doesn’t do it this year, he’s 18 years old and very young. Being there among the favourites is already something unique. I’m happy for what he’s doing with us.
“He’s an incredible player. Every day he gets better. In training he’s amazing. He has to continue like this, with that mentality and I’m sure that if he doesn’t win the Ballon d’Or this year, he will win many in the future.”
Gavi impressed by Dro impact
Yamal may be joined by another exciting teenager in the Barca team this season with Pedro Fernandez – known as Dro – making waves on the club’s pre-season tour of the Far East.
Gavi added: “Dro is a real talent and an incredible person, he’s a very good boy.
“I advise him a lot because in the end he is my protégé there [in La Masia]. I always try to help him in everything and I hope he continues like this, with the mentality he has and that he gives everything in training.
“It’s important because the coach sees it and then decides. If he continues like this, everything will be fine.”
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2025-08-01 12:35:42
