Gavi Returns to Barcelona Training After World Cup Glory

There was a familiar face back at the Ciutat Esportiva on Thursday: Gavi returns to Barcelona training having cut his summer break short by almost a week after Spain's World Cup triumph. The academy graduate reported back to Hansi Flick's group and went straight into individual work.

The midfielder made his ambitions for the season clear in his first words since returning, released by the club.

Now it's about getting into shape with the team, and this season, we go for everything.

Why Gavi returns early matters

Coming back ahead of schedule underlines Gavi's hunger after lifting the World Cup, though he still needs minutes in his legs. Mundo Deportivo carried his comments and reported he is not expected to feature in Saturday's triangular in Udine against Nottingham Forest and Udinese, with match sharpness still to come.

His early return is a welcome boost as Flick manages the wider fitness picture across the squad. Barcelona will want their No. 6 firing when the LaLiga title defence begins.