Barcelona Await Xavi Espart’s Medical Results After Painful Injury Blow Against Real Madrid

Barcelona have suffered another defensive setback after young defender Xavi Espart began undergoing medical examinations following an injury sustained during Sunday’s El Clásico against Real Madrid.

According to reports emerging on Monday, October 26, 2026, the Barcelona academy graduate is undergoing medical tests to determine the exact nature and severity of the problem. The club is expected to provide an official update once the examinations have been completed.

The development has raised fresh concerns for head coach Hansi Flick, who is already dealing with several injury problems within his defensive department.

Espart Forced Off During El Clásico

Espart started Barcelona’s highly anticipated meeting with Real Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday but was unable to complete the match after experiencing discomfort.

The 19-year-old defender was forced off in the 29th minute following a challenge involving Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni. Reports suggest that the youngster appeared to experience a problem with his right ankle, although the precise diagnosis has not yet been officially confirmed by Barcelona.

Despite attempting to continue, Espart eventually had to leave the pitch, forcing Flick to make an early substitution.

Alejandro Balde came on to replace him, while João Cancelo switched positions to cover the right-back area.

The substitution disrupted Barcelona’s defensive arrangement during a crucial encounter, particularly because the Catalan giants were already missing several important players through injury.

Barcelona Await Official Medical Report

According to journalist Guillem B. P. (@Guillembp01), Espart is currently undergoing medical tests, with Barcelona expected to announce the exact extent of his injury shortly.

Until the club releases its findings, there is no confirmed recovery timeline for the young defender.

The medical assessment will determine whether Espart has sustained a minor problem that could allow him to return soon or a more serious injury that might keep him out of action for an extended period.

Barcelona supporters will be hoping the examinations bring positive news, especially given the defender’s growing importance to Flick’s plans.

Flick Faces Defensive Concerns

Espart’s injury comes at an uncomfortable time for Barcelona, who have already been managing fitness issues involving players such as Jules Koundé, Eric García and Andreas Christensen.

With several defensive options unavailable, another absence could leave Flick with limited opportunities to rotate his backline during a demanding period of the season.

Barcelona are scheduled to face Deportivo Alavés on October 31 before their Champions League meeting with Aston Villa on November 3.

Espart’s availability for those fixtures will depend on the results of his medical examinations and subsequent recovery.

Final Thoughts

For now, Barcelona must wait for the official diagnosis before determining the youngster’s next steps.

The coming medical update will be crucial in establishing how serious the setback is and whether Espart can return to action soon.

Barcelona fans will be hoping the promising defender has avoided a serious injury as the club prepares for its upcoming fixtures.

Source

https://x.com/i/status/2114691418077667557