’s Appeal Committee rejected the Spanish federation’s request to delay the punishment or place it under a one-year probation period. With no further appeal available, Gavi’s absence from the England match is now settled.
The ban dates back to an incident involving Leandro Paredes during the World Cup final. Spain had pointed to a separate case involving Folarin Balogun as a precedent, but did not accept the comparison.
That clarity matters for Spain’s planning. Gavi is unavailable for one match, not the entire international window.
Gavi’s value is not limited to possession. His pressing, aggression and ability to carry the ball through midfield give Spain energy when matches become transitional. Against England in London, those qualities would have offered De la Fuente a direct way to disrupt England’s build-up.
His absence places greater responsibility on the rest of Spain’s midfield to match the pace and physical demands of the opener. The replacement may provide more control or experience, but replicating Gavi’s intensity will be difficult.
The timing also removes the possibility of using him as a high-impact substitute if England’s midfield begins to tire.
Spain’s next fixture is at home to Croatia on September 29, giving Gavi a potential return date if he is included in De la Fuente’s squad. The coach’s selection will therefore shape the midfielder’s international storyline: forced spectator in London, possible starter just three days later.
Spain must first navigate the England challenge without him. Gavi’s comeback against Croatia could then become the next key test of the team’s midfield balance.