Gavi was on the receiving end of some friendly hits from his FC Barcelona teammates during a recent training session, a lighthearted moment that comes as the young midfielder is expected to step into a prominent role in the club's next match.

Video and images from Barcelona's preparations showed teammates playfully smacking Gavi as part of the group's usual locker-room antics, underscoring the positive atmosphere around the squad.

The mood has been relaxed following the club's successful league campaign, and with the title already secured, attention has shifted toward squad rotation and giving opportunities to players who have seen limited starts in recent weeks.

Where would Gavi fit now?

According to Diario Sport, Gavi is in line to be afforded a starting role when Barcelona return to action Sunday evening against Villarreal CF in their penultimate fixture of the season. The Spanish international has found it difficult to break into the starting XI during a crucial stretch of the campaign, as manager Hansi Flick has consistently relied on his preferred midfield trio of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Dani Olmo.

With Barcelona now playing without the pressure of a title race, Flick appears ready to rotate his squad. Sport reports that Gavi seems certain to start and could slot into Pedri's position, as the latter has accumulated heavy minutes. There is also the possibility that Gavi could replace De Jong in midfield, with the Dutchman also expected to see reduced playing time against Villarreal.

For Gavi, the opportunity represents an important chance to reassert himself in a midfield that has been among the most consistent units in La Liga this season. Still just in his early 20s, he remains a central figure in Barcelona's long-term plans, and meaningful minutes in the closing stages of the campaign could help him build momentum heading into next season.

The friendly taps from teammates this week reflected a squad enjoying its success, but they also highlighted Gavi's standing within the group. As Barcelona prepare for their final home stretch, the young midfielder is poised to move from the center of a playful moment in training to the center of the action on matchday.