Gavi ‘ordered’ to attend Euro 2024 final in Germany as a spectator
3 min read
The King of Spain, Felipe VI, has extended a special invitation to Barcelona midfielder Gavi, affirming his important role in the national team despite his absence from Euro 2024 due to injury.
In the early hours of July 14, Spain will face England in the UEFA Euro 2024 final in Berlin, Germany. La Roja has displayed excellent form throughout the tournament, defeating strong contenders Germany and France to secure their place in the final.
Spain’s squad includes four Barcelona players: Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Ferran Torres, and Fermin Lopez. However, another prominent Barca star, Gavi, could not participate in the Euros due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he sustained last November.
Despite his absence from the tournament, Gavi is still considered a crucial part of coach Luis de la Fuente’s team. This was evident during a recent meeting between him and King Felipe VI. On Wednesday evening, Gavi attended the Princess of Girona Foundation (FPdGi) awards ceremony at the Palace of Congresses in Lloret de Mar, hosted by King Felipe VI and Princess Leonor.
During this meeting, King Felipe VI had a brief but meaningful conversation with Gavi, expressing his desire for the player to attend the Euro 2024 final in Germany. According to a report by SPORT, the King told the 19-year-old midfielder, “See you at the final on Sunday in Berlin. You cannot miss it because you are part of the team.”
This invitation is not just a courteous gesture but also an absolute affirmation of Gavi’s role in the Spanish national team, even though he could not compete in Euro 2024.
The relationship between Gavi and the Spanish royal family seems quite special. It is reported that Princess Leonor, the daughter of King Felipe VI, is a huge fan of Gavi. A few years ago, one of the Princess’s textbooks was even covered with pictures of the player.
King Felipe VI’s interest in Gavi is not new. After Spain’s victory over Costa Rica at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the King was seen in the team’s dressing room, asking Gavi to sign a jersey.
Currently, Gavi is still recovering from his severe knee injury. He participated in the first day’s tests for the new season with Barcelona but still needs at least a few more months before he can return to regular training. Nevertheless, the attention and support from King Felipe VI will undoubtedly be a significant encouragement for Gavi during his recovery.
When the final takes place at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, Gavi may sit in the stands alongside King Felipe VI to cheer on his teammates. His presence will certainly be a great morale booster for the Spanish team as they strive to win their fourth Euro title in the country’s history.
