Xavi hails Gavi as the ‘heart’ of Barcelona

Barcelona head coach Xavi has labelled Gavi as the ‘heart’ of his team after the 18-year-old impressed in his side’s 3-0 win away at Sevilla.

Barca maintained their unbeaten start to the league campaign with victory over the Andalucians, earned through goals from Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Eric Garcia.

However, Gavi stole the headlines with a standout performance in midfield alongside Sergio Busquets and Pedri. And Xavi reserved special praise for one of La Masia’s finest graduates as he discussed the midfielder’s influence on the team.

“It doesn’t surprise me, I see him train every day,” said the Barca boss. “It’s down to hard work, discipline and heart. He was the best player in the game, because of his intensity, fight, passing, high pressing – he has heart in his legs.”

Barcelona started the game sluggishly at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan before assuming complete control from the 20th minute onwards.

Xavi was pleased by the extent of dominance from his side as he underlined the confidence coursing through Barcelona.

“We played a very good match, we possessed and had chances to improve the result,” added the Barca boss. “Winning at a complex ground is a positive sign.

“We didn’t start well in the first 15 minutes, but then, as soon as we settled in, we dominated the game and had chances to score more goals. This victory is a good sign, we’re in a good moment.

“We have to continue to be humble. We’re on the right track, but we have to improve.”