Xavi Espart of FC Barcelona
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
As FC Barcelona get set to face Athletic Club later tonight in La Liga, the club have completed the registration of teenage starlet Xavi Espart as a first-team player.
Indeed, the versatile La Masia prodigy has been registered as a player of the senior squad with La Liga, and is expected to debut his new No. 12 shirt tonight against the Basque outfit.
Espart made his first-team breakthrough last season, making a solid impression in the matches he played.
Courtesy: La Liga official website
His stature has grown significantly in recent weeks as he impressed during pre-season with his versatility and tactical flexibility, playing in midfield and at right-back. This came after he starred in Spain’s U19 Euro triumph during the summer.
The Blaugrana’s opening match of the season against Elche even saw him start at left-back ahead of Alejandro Balde.
Espart has made a big impression on manager Hansi Flick and there have even been comparisons drawn with Bayern Munich legend Philipp Lahm.
The youngster’s first-team registration and squad number feel more than deserved. Not only that, but Barcelona also plan to improve his contract following his elevated status in the squad.
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid player
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid player