Gavi will not be able to play against England
According to Mundodeportivo.
Context
Gavi, one of FC Barcelona's most promising young talents, was sanctioned by FIFA due to incidents in the World Cup final. His absence in the game against England is a setback for the Spanish team, which is looking to establish itself in the Nations League. Gavi's situation highlights the importance of discipline in football and how FIFA's decisions can impact the future of players in international competitions.
Why this matters
Gavi's suspension is a significant blow for the Spanish team, especially at a crucial moment in the Nations League qualifying phase. The absence of FC Barcelona's young talent could affect the team's aspirations to secure a strong position for the 2026 World Cup. Furthermore, FIFA's decision raises questions about discipline in football and the consequences players may face for incidents at major tournaments.
Main conclusions
- Gavi will not be able to play against England.
- Gavi faces a suspension that will prevent him from playing against England in the qualifying phase of the Nations League, as a result of incidents that occurred in the World Cup final.
- Gavi will not be able to play against England.
Updated on 18/09/2026 07:49 CEST - Gavi, a FC Barcelona player, finds himself in a delicate situation after a sanction imposed by FIFA, which will prevent him from participating in the important match against the England team. This penalty results from incidents during the World Cup final, which took place in July.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has expressed concern about FIFA's decision and, last Friday, the national coach, Luis de la Fuente, is expected to announce the squad for the first games of the Nations League qualifying phase. However, even if Gavi is included on the list, his participation in the game on September 26th in London is completely compromised.
FIFA has already rejected the RFEF's appeal to lift the one-year ban that was imposed on Gavi. This decision means that, if he is called up to a larger list, due to several games being played in a short space of time, Gavi will not be able to play in this crucial duel for the Spanish team's aspirations. The next qualifying game, where Gavi could have a new opportunity, will be against Croatia, which will be played on Spanish soil on September 29th.
The one-match sanction and the fine of 25,692 euros ($30,000) were determined by the FIFA Disciplinary Commission, which also sanctioned other players, including Leandro Paredes, who received a ten-match suspension. The RFEF had already tried to appeal this decision, but Gavi's penalty is not subject to appeal. They requested that the sanction be suspended and that Gavi be subjected to a one-year probationary period, using as a precedent the suspension of Folarin Balogun, who was sent off in a game during the World Cup and had his sanction suspended for a year.
With this situation, the Spanish team will face a significant challenge in its qualification, especially without the presence of Gavi, who is considered one of the most promising young talents in world football. The game against England will be crucial to Spain's Nations League aspirations, and Gavi's absence could have a considerable impact on the team.
What happens next
With Gavi out of the game against England, coach Luis de la Fuente will have to consider alternatives to fill the void left by the player. The next challenge will be against Croatia, where Gavi could have a new opportunity to show his value, if he is called up. The RFEF will continue to monitor the situation, but the one-year sanction is final, meaning Gavi will have to wait to return to the international field.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't Gavi play against England?
Gavi will not be able to play against England due to a sanction imposed by FIFA, resulting from incidents during the World Cup final.
Who confirmed Gavi's sanction?
Gavi's sanction was confirmed by FIFA, which rejected the Royal Spanish Football Federation's (RFEF) appeal to lift the suspension.
How long is Gavi's sanction?
Gavi received a one-year sanction, which prevents him from taking part in games, including the game against England.
What the RFEF tried to do in relation to the sanction
by Gavi?
The RFEF attempted to appeal FIFA's decision and requested that the sanction be suspended, but Gavi's penalty is not subject to appeal.
When will be the next game that Gavi can participate in?
The next game in which Gavi could have a new opportunity will be against Croatia, on September 29, on Spanish soil.