Barcelona turn to Espart after Kounde ruled out of Madrid clash
Hansi Flick confirmed that Jules Kounde will miss El Clasico because his ankle injury has not fully healed, and Barcelona will not risk him. Flick backed 19-year-old Xavi Espart to fill in at right-back after strong recent performances.
Barcelona’s coach Hansi Flick ruled Jules Kounde out of Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Real Madrid. The defender’s ankle problem, picked up against Real Betis the previous weekend, has not healed enough, and Flick said the club will avoid risking him, partly because other defenders are unavailable.
Flick will again use 19-year-old Xavi Espart at right-back. Espart impressed in Paris and is expected to face Madrid’s expensive recruit Yan Diomande. Flick called him professional and praised his recent displays while noting room to grow; he also previously likened the La Masia graduate to Philipp Lahm and has started him often this season.
The decision could affect Barcelona supporters and El Clasico viewers, who may see a less experienced defense in a high-profile match. It may also shape perceptions of La Masia pathways, giving young players like Espart a visible opportunity while increasing pressure on him. For Madrid, Yan Diomande could face a less established opponent. The outcome may influence discussion about squad depth and youth trust, though one match cannot define broader trends.