Since the start of the National Team training camp last Monday Ciudad de Fútbol at Las Rozas, Gavi has been practicing with a protective helmet to avoid any impact on his right ear, which was injured in his last match with FC Barcelona (against Osasuna in Pamplona). Gavi endured a painful blow there and needed five staples to close the wound, but that hasn't stopped him from working like any other player in training these days. However, he wears a chin strap.

"It's already healing, and it's getting better every day," explains Gavi, with the National Team doctor, Claudio Vázquez, helping him before each session to ensure the helmet fits snugly and doesn't bother him. "I wear it mainly to avoid getting hit because the staples might come loose. It's all about protection."

Although it may have felt a bit strange at first, the Spanish international has adapted well to the helmet: "It can be a bit stifling in hot weather, but overall, it's comfortable," says Gavi, who could play with the headgear if deemed necessary.