Barcelona midfielder Gavi has delivered a typically combative message ahead of Sunday's El Clasico, insisting that Real Madrid's absentees will not change his approach to the biggest fixture in Spanish football.
Speaking to ESPN (h/t AS ) before the meeting at Camp Nou, the midfielder also revealed his respect for Jose Mourinho, while Barcelona teammate Rodri warned against underestimating Madrid despite their recent form.
The stakes are significant for both sides. Barcelona have the opportunity to strengthen their position at the top of La Liga, while Real Madrid will be desperate to avoid falling further behind in the title race.
With Vinicius Jr. unavailable for this clash, one of the usual flashpoints between Gavi and the Brazilian will be missing from Sunday's contest.
However, the Barcelona midfielder made clear that Madrid's selection problems would not affect his determination to win.
Asked whether he cared that Real Madrid would be weakened without Vinicius and Dani Ceballos, Gavi responded,
"A weakened side without Vinicius? I don't care. It's Real Madrid and, at the end of the day, I'll give it my all whoever's playing."
Gavi will not miss Vinicius Jr. in El Clasico. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
He also underlined the emotional importance of the fixture to Barcelona supporters, explaining:
"There'll be players I get on better or worse with, but on the pitch I don't like any of them. I just hope to give the fans a win; they deserve it."
Despite his fierce competitive attitude, Gavi spoke positively about Mourinho, who is building his project at Real Madrid.
The Barcelona midfielder was asked about the Portuguese coach's personality and made it clear that he appreciates his confrontational style.
"I like Mourinho when he speaks. I like that sort of manager – someone with character and a fiery temperament.
"I like having him as an opponent. I have a lot of respect for him. The truth is, he doesn't get on my nerves."
Rodri is aware of Real Madrid's threat. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Gavi also explained how difficult it is for him to watch Barcelona when injury prevents him from playing, revealing just how deeply he feels the rivalry.
"When I'm injured, I suffer a lot watching the matches. I can't bear to watch them; I want Barça to win and Real Madrid to lose. In my family, we've never been fond of Real Madrid."
Rodri offered a more measured assessment of the opposition, cautioning that Real Madrid's ability to manipulate expectations makes them dangerous regardless of their form.
The Spain international, who turned down an opportunity to join Madrid before choosing Barcelona, believes his teammates must be prepared for a demanding contest.
"I've played in many knockout ties against them and I've realised that one of their great strengths is making their opponents believe they aren't that good. They won't fool us – or at least not me."
He added: "Real Madrid are always a formidable opponent, regardless of their form. And, for our part – which is what I'm trying to get across to my teammates – we'll have to be at our very best if we want to beat them."
