The youngster Xavi Espart was once again in the starting lineup as FC Barcelona faced Real Betis in a difficult away game in La Liga. As has been the case early in his first-team career, the fullback once again showed several promising signs in this match as well.
However, [there were times when his youth and lack of experience were quite evident](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/yamal-9-5-cubarsi-9-0-real-betis-2-5-fc-barcelona-player-ratings/). This was particularly the case when the hosts scored their first goal, which could have been prevented if Espart had shown more commitment. He also slipped on a couple of occasions, while his decision-making could also have been better at times.
As [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20261017/1004239966/xavi-espart-nino-suenas-partidos-psg-real-madrid.html) has reported, the young fullback also talked to the media after the match. After helping Barcelona get a win in this match, he was now looking forward to the two blockbuster games against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid:
**“PSG and Real Madrid are coming up. These are the matches you dream of playing in as a child.”**
Meanwhile, he also expressed his happiness with the last night’s win and was sure if the Blaugranes continue playing like this, they can go on to win important trophies:
**“We’re in a good run of form, and this team always gives 100%. This was a special match, without a doubt. If we keep playing as a unit, as we are doing now, we can achieve great things.”**
On the other hand, the youngster also highlighted one area where the Catalans need to make improvements:
**“We are an attacking team, but I feel we still concede too many goals. We should be keeping clean sheets in the important matches. Sometimes, we attack so much that we leave ourselves exposed at the back. We need to improve defensively.”**
The significantly more experienced Joao Cancelo is likely to start in these games, but it would not really be surprising to see Xavi Espart get some minutes too. Hopefully, he will be able to help Barcelona in whatever role Hansi Flick needs him, and continue to grow and improve going forward.