League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Barcelona misses on Jorge Salinas; Hansi Flick finds success with Xavi Espart

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 12:05 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Barcelona misses on Jorge Salinas; Hansi Flick finds success with Xavi Espart

Summary

Barcelona's attempt to sign Jorge Salinas from Racing Santander fell short this summer, as they could not meet the player's €16 million release clause. Instead, Hansi Flick has leveraged the situation to discover Xavi Espart, who has been a key player for Barcelona, starting every La Liga match this season and contributing one goal and two assists. Salinas, meanwhile, has started all five of Racing's matches this season and will face Barcelona soon. The failed transfer has inadvertently allowed Espart to establish himself in the squad, prompting favorable comparisons to Philipp Lahm from his manager.

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By the Numbers

•Barcelona offered €5-6 million for Salinas, Racing held firm on €16 million.
•Xavi Espart became a regular starter under Hansi Flick this season.
•Salinas has played every minute in Racing's five matches.
•Espart has one goal and two assists in La Liga matches.

Latest Updates

12:05 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona’s failed move for La Liga youngster has turned into an unexpected win for Hansi Flick

What they're saying

"
Barcelona could have entered the season with Jorge Salinas competing for the left-back position. Instead, a failed summer deal has helped Hansi Flick uncover one of the more unexpected success stories...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona LaLiga Soccer