The midfielder said the European loss had provided lessons ahead of the Real Madrid clash, despite Barcelona’s belief that they had performed well in difficult circumstances.
“It was a difficult match against an opponent who have won the Champions League twice and are a magnificent team. I think we played well despite the defeat. We have to improve many things for these matches because small details make a big difference. The tie will help us going into the Clásico because we come out of it strengthened.”
Gavi expects the domestic rivalry to be decided by commitment and concentration rather than the teams’ recent results.
“You have to go to war, regardless of how either team arrives. These are matches where both teams come out fired up from the start. We have to have the right mentality throughout because they can hurt you with any move, especially in the final minutes. They’re very dangerous. We have to stay focused for the whole match, and I hope we win.”
The midfielder also appealed to Barcelona supporters to create an atmosphere that could help the team secure victory.
“I hope they cheer louder than ever, and I hope we can give them that happiness, make them happy with the match and give them the win.”
Asked to pick his favourite Clásico under Hansi Flick, Gavi chose Barcelona’s 5-2 victory in the Spanish Super Cup.
Meanwhile, Orian Goren could be included in Flick’s squad for the match, offering the 17-year-old midfielder a potential first call-up to the senior team for one of the season’s highest-profile fixtures.
Born in Israel in March 2009, Goren joined Barcelona in 2023 from Maccabi Petah and progressed through the club’s youth system before moving into Barça Atlètic for the 2026-27 season. He also spent part of pre-season with the first team, including the Joan Gamper Trophy, giving Flick an opportunity to assess him alongside senior players.
Goren has become a regular presence in the reserve side’s midfield. His possible inclusion comes with Barcelona managing injuries in the senior squad, including Dani Olmo’s absence following the match against Paris Saint-Germain. Goren trained with the first team ahead of the Clásico, placing him in contention for a place in the matchday group.
A call-up would mark another step in his development, although selection is not guaranteed. For a young player who has advanced through La Masia since arriving in 2023, the chance to be involved in the Clásico would represent a significant milestone.
Barcelona must balance the demands of the match with the need to manage their squad carefully. Gavi’s message is that the established players must maintain their focus for the full 90 minutes, while Goren’s possible involvement highlights the opportunities that injuries can create for emerging talent.