Barcelona promotes 19-year-old youth player Xavi Espart to first team, assigns No. 12 jersey

Published Aug 25, 06:00 PM UTC

Barcelona has officially promoted 19-year-old youth academy player Xavi Espart to the first team, changing his La Liga jersey number from No. 36 to No. 12. Espart earned recognition from coach Hansi Flick and sports director Deco through his preseason performances. He started as left-back in Barcelona's La Liga opener against Elche due to injuries to Balde and Cancelo. Flick values Espart's versatility, as he can play right-back, defensive midfielder, central midfielder, and left-back. His current contract runs until 2028, and Barcelona plans to increase his salary and extend the contract after the summer transfer window closes.