Academy graduate Xavi Espart secures starting role at Barcelona

Barcelona academy product Xavi Espart has established himself as the team's primary left-back three games into the La Liga season. Despite the club signing Joao Cancelo to bolster the position, Espart has played every minute under manager Hansi Flick. His recent performance in a 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano included an assist, three successful dribbles, and eight ball recoveries. Flick acknowledged the player's versatility and technical quality, noting that the midfielder by trade has exceeded expectations in his defensive assignment. While Cancelo and Alejandro Balde remain on the roster, both have seen limited playing time compared to the 19-year-old. The emergence of the homegrown defender provides additional depth, as he is capable of playing across the midfield and both full-back positions.

• 8:15 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona homegrown defender causes serious competition for Cancelo