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

Xavi Espart expected to join Barcelona first team ahead of La Liga opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 3:50 PM

Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Xavi Espart expected to join Barcelona first team ahead of La Liga opener

Summary

Xavi Espart, a 19-year-old midfielder, is poised to take a spot in FC Barcelona's first-team squad for the 2026-27 season. With Marc Casado set for departure, Espart's performance in recent matches, including a starting role against FC Basel, has positioned him as a suitable replacement. He demonstrated versatility by playing both as a midfielder and right-back during pre-season. Barcelona faces Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday, followed by their La Liga campaign against Elche this weekend, where Espart could feature prominently in the lineup.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Espart has impressed in pre-season matches, including a recent friendly victory.
•Casado's departure opens a spot in the first-team squad for Espart.
•Barcelona will play against Al Ahly on August 19.
•La Liga campaign begins with a match against Elche on August 20.

Latest Updates

3:50 PMYahoo Sports — Report: 19-year-old Barcelona starlet set to replace exit-bound midfielder in first-team squad

What they're saying

"
Less than a week away from their first La Liga game, Xavi Espart seems to have already earned his place in FC Barcelona’s first-team squad for the 2026-27 season.Indeed, according to Mundo Deportivo...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona LaLiga Soccer