The latest injury setback in Hansi Flick’s Barcelona squad could open the door for a up-and-coming talent to take to the pitch at senior level for the very first time on Sunday.
The player in question? Xavi Espart.
Youngster Espart has for his part emerged as an increasingly prominent figure in Catalunya’s capital over the course of recent weeks.
This comes after the 18-year-old took full advantage of a call-up to first-team training, to turn the heads of Hansi Flick and his staff.
Espart has since also been afforded a number of matchday calls, albeit with the full-back yet to secure his senior debut.
As alluded to above, though, on Sunday, this situation could change.
With Jules Koundé a serious doubt to feature in Barcelona’s trip to face Celta Vigo owing to injury, Espart could step in in his place.
Even in the case of not being afforded a start, Eric García’s discomfort following a broken nose suffered in midweek could see the starlet introduced off the bench at some point at Balaídos.
Conor Laird – GSFN
