Hansi Flick highlights Xavi Espar’s role at Barcelona

Hansi Flick praises Xavi Espar’s talent and versatility for Barcelona

The coach compares the young La Masia player to Philipp Lahm and plans to use him amid injuries and fixture congestion

BlaugranaNews EditorialMarch 06, 20261 min read

So what

Flick’s reliance on La Masia talents like Xavi Espar highlights Barcelona’s strategy to manage a demanding schedule and injury challenges while giving youth a chance.

Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick has praised promising La Masia graduate Xavi Espar, comparing his playing style and versatility to former Bayern and Germany star Philipp Lahm. Flick highlighted Espar's confidence on the ball and ability to play both as a defender and defensive midfielder.

Recently returned from injury, Espar has been training with the first team this week. With recent injuries to Jules Koundé and Sergi Balde and a packed schedule including a Champions League tie against Newcastle, Flick signaled plans for squad rotations, giving opportunities to less experienced players like Espar and fellow youth talent Álvaro Corrés.

Flick emphasized the importance of managing players’ minutes carefully so that everyone can perform at their best during matches. He expects players to give their all regardless of their time on the pitch.

This approach reflects Barcelona’s focus on incorporating youth players amid a challenging season, and Espar’s versatility and quality put him in a strong position to contribute significantly in upcoming games.