Barcelona teenager Xavi Espart targets swift return after seven-week injury lay-off

Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart says he is focused solely on returning to action as quickly as possible after suffering an ankle ligament injury in Sunday’s clasico defeat by Real Madrid.

The 19-year-old is expected to be out for around seven weeks after damaging the ligaments in his right ankle following a challenge involving Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. Espart was unable to continue because of the pain.

His absence is a significant setback for Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who had placed considerable trust in the young player, according to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo.

Espart shared a message of determination on social media while he awaits further progress in his recovery. He also expressed his disappointment at Barcelona’s 2-1 loss to Real Madrid and vowed to work hard to rejoin the team as soon as possible.

Posting two photographs from the clasico on Instagram, Espart wrote: “I am hurt by the defeat, and I am only thinking about one thing: returning as soon as possible. They will not be able to beat us. Forca Barca!”

Before sustaining the injury, Espart had made nine appearances for Barcelona at the start of this season. He scored two goals and provided two assists, performances which helped him establish himself as a regular member of the side.

The teenager had demonstrated his versatility by operating at both right-back and left-back. His injury therefore leaves Flick without a player who had quickly become an important option in either full-back position.

Barcelona are listed in La Liga on 31 October 2026, while Racing Santander and Real Madrid appear under the competition on 1 November 2026.