Gavi was promoted into the senior set-up by Ronald Koeman at the start of the campaign and has been one of Barca’s best players this term.
He has mainly been selected in central midfield, earning himself comparisons to his legendary manager.
But against Atletico Madrid last week, Gavi lined up on the left-wing and produced another impressive performance.
The youngster scored his side’s second goal in a 4-2 win as they fought back from going behind to Diego Simeone’s men.
The win moved Barca up into the top four, a position they will be looking to consolidate when they travel to city rivals Espanyol on Sunday.
Gavi is almost certain to feature once again, having become one of the most important players in Xavi’s squad.
And heading into derby day, Xavi took the opportunity to praise the youngster, describing him as ‘brutal’.
“The situations where he steals balls, which are many, when he puts pressure after losses, it’s brutal,” he said, using a Spanish expression that indicates something is extraordinary.
“He turns very well, he knows how to retain shape, he knows how to be the third man, he knows when he has to come inside.
“At just 17 years old his performance is spectacular. It’s wonderful to train him.”
Xavi’s praise comes as both Liverpool and Chelsea eye moves for the wonderkid, who Sport reports is still playing on a youth contract.
While Barca are trying to tie him down to a long-term deal, ‘no progress’ has been made in negotiations, opening the door to the Premier League duo.
The Reds and the Blues are among the teams to have ‘raised their hands’ to show their interest in the 17-year-old.
Many clubs have been asking about him with his future uncertain, both to Barcelona themselves and to the midfielder’s agent.
