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Barcelona coach Flick prepares for Elche debut with new midfielder

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 10:15 AM

Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Barcelona coach Flick prepares for Elche debut with new midfielder

Summary

FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick will feature a new midfielder, Xavi Espart, in the upcoming 2026/2027 campaign starting with an away match against Elche on Sunday night. Espart, a product of La Masia, has impressed in preseason and could take a starting role, particularly with several key players like Pedri and new signing Rodri unavailable. Flick has praised Espart's versatility, likening him to renowned player Philip Lahm. Barcelona is set to kick off their season later than most teams due to several players' World Cup commitments, aiming to continue their success after retaining the La Liga title last season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Hansi Flick promotes Xavi Espart to midfield for 2026/2027 season.
•Barcelona's opening match is against Elche on Sunday night.
•Espart impressed during preseason, especially in a recent match against Basel.
•Key players like Pedri and Rodri are unavailable for the Elche match, increasing Espart's chances of starting.
•The match is significant as Barcelona aims to build on last season's La Liga success.

Latest Updates

10:15 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona Coach Flick Has A New Midfielder Ahead Of Elche Debut

What they're saying

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FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has effectively landed a new midfielder for his team's upcoming 2026/2027 campaign, which kicks off with an away trip to Elche.
— Yahoo Sports

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