Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart is set to retain his place in the starting lineup for Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid.
The Spanish teenager produced an outstanding performance against PSG in the Champions League and looks to have nailed down the right-back spot for the Clasico.
According to [AS](http://as.com/futbol/espart-convence-flick-le-dara-el-lateral-derecho-en-el-clasico-f202610-n/), Hansi Flick has been so impressed by the 19-year-old defender that he intends to start him at right-back against Madrid.
Even if Jules Kounde recovers sufficiently to make the matchday squad, Barcelona seem keen on retaining Espart alongside Lamine on the right flank.
Espart was one of Barcelona’s standout performers against PSG, delivering an impressive defensive display against Khvicha Kvaratskhelia while also scoring a goal.
His performance was even more remarkable considering he had experienced quadriceps discomfort before the match and required treatment from a physiotherapist.
The youngster also suffered a heavy knock to his ankle during the encounter, although that is not expected to prevent him from being fully available on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Kounde continues to recover from an ankle sprain and is not expected to be ready to start. Even if the Frenchman makes the squad, he might have to remain on the bench.
Unless there are unexpected changes, Flick is expected to retain the same defensive combination that faced PSG, with Espart and Joao Cancelo at full-back alongside Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin.
Espart’s emergence could hardly have come at a better moment. With Kounde unavailable, Flick needed someone capable of handling a demanding defensive role.
Espart has responded with maturity beyond his years, and his performance against Kvaratskhelia suggests he has the confidence to face another difficult challenge.
Against Madrid, he could be tasked with containing Yan Diomande, with Vinicius Junior suspended for the encounter.
Of course, one outstanding Champions League performance does not guarantee consistency. El Clasico brings a different kind of pressure, but so far, nothing has fazed Espart.
Flick’s willingness to trust Espart sends an important message throughout La Masia: opportunities are earned through performances, not reputation.
If the youngster delivers again on Sunday, Barcelona may have discovered more than a temporary replacement for Kounde. They might have found their long-term right-back.