"It's a dream, I'm still taking it in. Flick had called Roony Bardghji. They scored the goal, and Ronald threw himself to the ground. Flick made us wait and then suddenly turned around and shouted: Xavi. I rushed off to get my kit and get ready to come on. I couldn't believe it."
"Once I was out on the pitch, I had the time of my life. Flick told me to play as I know how and that I would enjoy it. That message really helped calm my nerves and allowed me to focus on performing well during those final minutes of the match."
Xavi Espart, a young defender from Barcelona's academy, made his senior team debut during the Champions League round of 16 first leg against Newcastle United at St James' Park. Manager Hansi Flick introduced him in the 88th minute as Barcelona sought to secure a 1-1 draw. The unexpected call-up surprised Espart, who described the moment as surreal and admitted he rushed to prepare his kit. Flick's pre-match instruction to play naturally and enjoy himself helped calm the teenager's nerves. Fellow academy graduate Pau Cubarsi praised Espart's contribution after the match, highlighting their shared journey through Barcelona's youth system.
Read at Barca Universal
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