Xavi Espart Makes Barcelona Debut as Reports Point to More Minutes Against Sevilla
Injury absences at full-back place the 18-year-old in line for first-team action this weekend, according to Catalunya Radio.
Overview
- The right-back entered late in the 1-1 Champions League draw at Newcastle, marking his first senior appearance.
- Manager Hansi Flick has publicly praised Espart, even invoking Philipp Lahm in assessing the youngster.
- With Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde out, local reports suggest Espart could feature — potentially start — at right-back versus Sevilla.
- Espart said the coach’s trust “means everything” and vowed to keep working for further opportunities.
- His breakthrough follows an earlier knee layoff, as Barcelona turns to La Masia options during a busy run that may prompt rotation.