Barcelona was up against it on Friday, winning 1-0 over Sevilla in La Liga matchday eight.
The Catalans edged the Andalusians with an own goal from Sergio Ramos in the closing 15 minutes, but there was uncertainty until the final whistle about whether they could hold on to the slender advantage.
following missing many opportunities to take control of the game, Barcelona needed to guarantee they did not lose any distance in the league following their slip-up against Mallorca just a few days previously.
Gavi was once again one of the standout performers on and off the ball in the match against Sevilla, continuing his excellent form this season and playing as a creative force and defensive asset in the absence of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri.
The game was still on a knife’s edge in the last seconds, and Gavi was one of the players who ran himself into the ground until the very end to secure the three points.
Gavi, future captain?
The Spaniard’s intensity never fails to show through on the pitch, and while it sometimes boils over, it is a major part of what makes him such a vital asset to the side.
In this video from DAZN, the midfielder is seen scolding Robert Lewandowski in the dying embers of the game, after the veteran Pole committed a foul.
Despite Lewandowski being 16 years older and commanding the stature that he does, Gavi’s love for the team and willingness to win shone through as he gives his teammate a piece of his mind.
The youngster can be heard saying: “Robert, damn it. Don’t need a foul there, damn it. Man!”
Luckily, the situation did not escalate as the pair seem to share a wonderful relationship, and despite Gavi’s temper in the heat of battle, he has great admiration for Lewandowski.
While the Spaniard does perhaps need to have a better lid on his emotions at times, it shows just how much every kick of the ball matters to him – the sign of a leader in the making.