Barcelona Concerned About Xavi Espart’s Ankle Before Real Madrid Clash
Xavi Espart hurt his ankle in Barcelona’s 4-2 Champions League defeat at PSG, a match in which he started at right-back and scored. His 74th-minute withdrawal was described as a precaution, and the team hopes he will be available for Sunday’s meeting with Real Madrid. With other defenders unavailable, Hansi Flick’s selection options are stretched.
Xavi Espart, a teenage Barcelona right-back, opened his Champions League account for the club in the midweek 4-2 loss at Paris Saint-Germain. He left the pitch in the 74th minute because of ankle soreness, and the change was framed as precautionary.
Barcelona hope Espart can face Real Madrid on Sunday in La Liga. Hansi Flick’s defensive choices are limited: Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen are unavailable, Jules Kounde is unlikely to be ready by then, and Gerard Martin is still managing a minor issue from the Betis match.
The availability of a young Barcelona defender could shape fan anticipation and broadcast interest around El Clasico, affecting supporters who plan matchday routines and businesses tied to football traffic. If Espart is fit, his presence may add a feel-good storyline for younger players; if not, Flick’s makeshift defense could intensify scrutiny and frustration among Barcelona followers. The wider public impact is likely modest, centered on sports audiences rather than broader social change.