"When I started to put him at full-back I was surprised, but then I saw his games there and it was a scandal. How he associates, how he gets inside, how he hits the ball... he has even scored goals. I like him a lot in central midfield, but seeing the level he has in that position in the first team, maybe the opportunity will come to him earlier as a full-back."
"Without a doubt. He is the profile that every Barcelona fan wants to see: a homegrown talent who feels the badge from a young age. His family is also very identified with Barcelona. If he arrives, he will be one of those players who are especially exciting. One of those that you look at the line-up and think: Another one from home."
Barcelona's Hansi Flick assessed young defender Xavi Espart in training following injuries to key defenders Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde. Pau Moral, who previously coached Espart, praised the teenager's versatility and technical abilities, particularly highlighting his surprising effectiveness as a full-back despite initially being developed as a central midfielder. Moral emphasized Espart's ball-striking, positioning, and goal-scoring capabilities. He expressed confidence that Espart possesses the quality to become an important first-team player at Barcelona, noting the special significance of homegrown talent. Moral highlighted Espart's deep connection to the club and his family's Barcelona identity, suggesting his potential emergence would resonate with supporters who value academy-developed players.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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