Barcelona midfielder Gavi has opened up on Marc Cucurella’s transfer to Real Madrid and criticism he’s received in a new interview while at World Cup 2026.
The Spain star a very clear idea of what kind of player he is. Known for his competitive spirt, tireless running, and prickly personality on the pitch, Gavi is known for being a thorn in the side of any team he’s up against. Equally, he’s known as a fan favorite for Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
Speaking to RAC1, he put it bluntly: “If
you are on my team, you love me, if not, you will probably want to kill me.”
Gavi said it’s not something he thinks about these days as playing for the national team means going beyond club rivalries. It’s just as well because his teammate Marc Cucurella, who once played for Barcelona, will be playing for Real Madrid next season.
“We found out the day before, after training. We didn’t expect it and nobody knew, he kept it very quiet. Lamine is a bit annoyed, because now he will be the one to defend him in the classics,” he explained.
“I like him as a rival. He’s tough and intense. He’s a good signing for the Whites, I’m happy for him .”
Things are not rosy right now for the highly vaunted Spanish national team. Despite being hailed as one of the tournament favorites, they were held to a draw by the underdog Cape Verde.
Gavi said he expected the criticism after the 0-0 match.
“Since I made my debut I’ve been a player who has always received criticism, but I’ve never given up. I don’t like receiving it, but it’s something that motivates me more and more and I see it as normal in football, when you’re in the spotlight,” he said, vowing that Spain will improve in their upcoming matches.
