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Hansi Flick praises young Barcelona defender Xavi Espart's talent

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 3:50 PM

Last updated Aug 15, 2026

Hansi Flick praises young Barcelona defender Xavi Espart's talent

Summary

Hansi Flick has identified FC Barcelona's Xavi Espart as a top-level talent during the club's pre-season. The 19-year-old right-back, who was promoted to the first team last season, has impressed in matches against Birmingham, Udinese, and Nottingham Forest. Flick's endorsement likely secures Espart's position in the first team for the upcoming season over Hector Fort, who may soon depart for Borussia Dortmund. Espart's versatility and strong performances have made a notable impact on the coach.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Xavi Espart showcased strong performances in pre-season matches.
•Flick plans to include Espart in the first team for the new season.
•Espart joined Barcelona's youth setup in 2015.
•Catalonia's squad changes potentially affect Hector Fort's future.
•Espart is under contract until 2028 with FC Barcelona.

Latest Updates

3:50 PMYahoo Sports — Hansi Flick considers Barcelona academy graduate a top-level talent

What they're saying

"
FC Barcelona’s pre-season has been shaped by the absences of the internationals who played at the World Cup and the resulting influx of young academy players into the first team. Among the players c...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona Borussia Dortmund Champions League Soccer