Gavi Joins Icon Pelé in Elite World Cup Club

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has become only the sixth player in history to participate in two World Cups before turning 21.

The Spanish international was named in Luis de la Fuente's starting XI for their opening Group Stage match of the 2026 World Cup against Cape Verde, which ended in a goalless draw.

At the previous World Cup, Gavi featured in all four of Spain's matches.

With this achievement, he joins the legendary Pelé, as well as other renowned names in football history. Before him, only Norman Whiteside, Rigobert Song, Salomon Olembé, and Samuel Eto'o had accomplished this feat.