According to a report by GOAL on Saturday October 24, 2026, former Barcelona youth coach Pau Moral has backed youngster Xavi Espart to cope with the challenge of facing Real Madrid winger Yan Diomande in Sunday's El Clasico.

Barcelona will host their arch-rivals at Spotify Camp Nou on October 25, with Espart potentially playing an important role as Hansi Flick's side deal with several injury concerns in defence.

The young defender has impressed this season with his versatility and tactical awareness, earning praise after scoring his first Champions League goal against Paris Saint-Germain in midweek.

Moral, who worked with Espart during his time at La Masia, believes the youngster has the intelligence needed to contain Diomande, although he warned that mistakes remain part of a young player's development.

Speaking to Cadena SER, Moral said: "I don't think he'll have any trouble defending against Diomande; he's a very intelligent player. We also have to be prepared for him to make mistakes someday. It's not normal for these La Masia lads to never make a single error."

Barcelona could turn to Espart at right-back if Jules Kounde fails to recover from his ankle injury. The Catalan club are also without several other players, increasing the importance of the options available to Flick ahead of the crucial encounter.

Moral also highlighted the hard work behind Espart's rise to the first team, explaining that the youngster was not initially regarded as a major prospect in the same way as academy graduates such as Gavi and Lamine Yamal.

According to the former coach, Espart's determination and commitment have helped him earn his opportunity at senior level. He also praised the defender's performances alongside fellow La Masia graduate Pau Cubarsi.

Although Espart has impressed at both full-back positions, Moral believes midfield is the youngster's most natural role, highlighting his versatility as an additional asset for Barcelona.

The teenager now faces a potentially significant test against Real Madrid, with his ability to handle Diomande's attacking threat likely to attract attention if he starts.

Barcelona head into the encounter after winning their opening nine league matches, according to the report, and will be eager to maintain their advantage at the top of the table.