SpotlightFootball EspanaUnverified source· 26 Aug 2026
Xavi Espart earns Barcelona first-team promotion
Teenage defender's versatility impresses Flick and Deco, earning him a first-team spot and the No. 12 shirt.
X. Espart
player
Age
19
Position
Defender (right-back, left-back, defensive midfield, central midfield)
Club
Barcelona
Shirt number
No. 12 (previously No. 36)
What happened. Barcelona promoted academy defender Xavi Espart to the first team after his pre-season performances impressed Hansi Flick and Deco, and he will now wear the No. 12 shirt.
- Espart started Barcelona's opening La Liga match at left-back in a 5-0 win over Elche.
- He can play at right-back, left-back, defensive midfield, and central midfield.
- Flick praised his versatility and professionalism; Deco approved his performances.
Espart's promotion signals Barcelona's confidence in the youngster as he begins his first-team career.
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