Sergio Busquets and Gavi are undisputable starters under Xavi Hernandez

Xavi considers Busquets as the best central midfielder worldwide, as he has stressed on numerous occasions, but he has also expressed his admiration for Gavi’s talent.

Busquets and Gavi have very similar characteristics

Sergio Busquets and Gavi are undisputable starters under Xavi Hernandez, who has repeatedly praised the attributes of both midfielders in interviews and press conferences since moving back to Barcelona. Xavi considers Busquets as the best central midfielder worldwide, as he has stressed on numerous occasions, but he has also expressed his admiration for Gavi’s talent. The former Al Sadd coach praised the young midfielder following his goal and overall performance in the 3-2 win over Elche. “He doesn’t look like he’s 17 years old,” said Xavi. “Having Gavi is a spectacle. It is incredible how he competes at that age. Gavi is exciting; it’s priceless for a coach.” The two academy products represent the present and future of the club and, despite playing in different positions, they have very similar characteristics.”

The two midfielders’ “records” at Barca

Busquets has managed to complete 86.7 per cent of the passes that he has attempted so far this season, while Gavi is at the 89 per cent rate. Although Gavi has produced just over half the number of passes attempted by the holding midfielder, the youngster usually plays the ball closest to the final third. The risk of misplacing a pass is higher. Busquets and Gavi are the two midfielders who contribute the most in defence and are the two Barcelona outfielders who have committed the most fouls, with 33 and 32, respectively. Meanwhile, they are the ones who have received the most yellow cards as they have been booked five times each, having already served a one-game ban apiece.

Only Memphis Depay (37) has received more fouls than these two Barcelona academy products, with Busquets registering 36 and Gavi 35. Given his position on the pitch, Gavi is involved in Barcelona’s attacks more than his teammate. The 17-year-old prodigy has scored one more goal than his captain (two to one), while Gavi also has more assists and chances created than Busquets, with three assists and 11 opportunities created so far for the youngster.