Gavi sends loving message to boy hurt by police outside Elche stadium
Gavi reaches out to young fan injured in police clash
FC Barcelona star Gavi has sent a heartfelt message of support to a young supporter who was hurt during clashes with police outside the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero ahead of the club's comprehensive 5-0 win over Elche.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who was himself nursing a minor injury after playing 45 minutes in the resounding victory, responded online after a photo surfaced showing a youngster smiling while sporting a bandage on his head. The image, published by Barcelona fan group Penya Barcelonista de Sant Antoni, quickly drew attention from across the club community.
Gavi's response was understated but unmistakable in its message: a comment consisting simply of four emojis — flexed bicep, flexed bicep, blue heart, red heart. The intent was clear, with the Spain international sending strength and love to a fellow culé.
Violence outside the stadium
The incident unfolded on Sunday before kick-off, when a video showed several fans being struck by police using batons outside the ground after pro-Catalan independence flags, known as Esteladas, were confiscated. The footage prompted widespread condemnation from the Catalan club and its president.
Joan Laporta described the police actions as "disproportionate and violent." The club reinforced that stance with an official statement condemning the use of force.
"Barça condemn the disproportionate use of force against supporters during the incidents that took place in the vicinity of the stadium ahead of the league game against Elche," the statement read.
"In particular, the club considers that the procedure used to detain one of our fans was disproportionate and that the use of force lacked the necessary justification and appropriateness.
"Barça also regret that, once again, police officers confiscated Estelada flags from fans.
"The Estelada is a legally endorsed symbol and its display constitutes a legitimate exercise of freedom of expression. As such, it cannot in itself be considered an incitement to hatred or violence."