Barcelona are reportedly set to promote [Xavi Espart](/barcelona-team-news/115829/hansi-flick-finds-a-new-barcelona-defensive-anchor-in-xavi-espart) to the first-team squad for the 2026-27 season and will hand the youngster a new number.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are now set to promote Espart to the senior squad and will hand him the No. 12 shirt. Espart wore the No. 36 against Elche but is now set to swap once his promotion has been confirmed.
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick is clearly a big admirer of Espart, previously comparing him to Philipp Lahm, and also praised the versatile star after the victory over Elche.
“He can play on the right, on the left. He knows what he has to do and is fantastic on the ball; he does everything well,” he said.
Espart is still only 19 but has already shown his versatility for Barca, playing in defence and in midfield, and looks set for plenty more opportunities this season.
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