Barcelona, Xavi Espart and Hansi Flick
26 October 2026
Barcelona have confirmed that 19-year-old defender Xavi Espart will miss approximately seven weeks after suffering a right-ankle injury during the 2-1 Clásico defeat against Real Madrid. The setback adds to the club’s growing defensive injury problems.
Espart injured the syndesmosis joint in his right ankle following a collision and was replaced by Alejandro Balde. Medical examinations confirmed the damage on Monday. With Jules Koundé, Eric García and Andreas Christensen also unavailable for the Clásico, Flick has limited defensive options. Koundé and Christensen are closer to returning, but their availability for the next match remains uncertain.
Why It Matters
Barcelona's defensive depth is stretched further ahead of important league and European matches.
Upcoming Match
Barcelona vs Alavés