Xavi Espart shines during Barcelona's pre-season draw with Birmingham City
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 1, 2026, 5:35 PM
Last updated Aug 1, 2026
Barcelona faced Birmingham City in a pre-season friendly that ended in a 2-2 draw. Hansi Flick fielded a young squad, featuring Xavi Espart at right-back. The 19-year-old impressed with his composure and adaptability, contributing to both defense and offense. His performance positions him strongly for a role in the upcoming season, as he demonstrated maturity and tactical understanding, which are valued in Flick's system. Espart played 62 minutes before being substituted, showcasing his potential to earn a first-team spot.
- •Barcelona and Birmingham City played to a 2-2 draw in a friendly.
- •Xavi Espart started as right-back and played 62 minutes.
- •Espart's performance highlighted his defensive skills and midfield instincts.
- •Hansi Flick showed trust in Espart's abilities by selecting him in the starting lineup.
- •Barcelona seeks to strengthen its squad with versatile and tactically aware defenders.
- 5:35 PMYahoo Sports — La Masia starlet strengthens Barcelona first-team case with mature display vs Birmingham City
"Barcelona played their first official pre-season friendly against Birmingham City, and Hansi Flick named a very youthful team from the outset.The German manager played Xavi Espart at right-back ahead ...
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