Xavi Espart
BAR
Ruled out seven weeks
Espart is expected to miss approximately seven weeks after medical examinations confirmed a syndesmosis injury in his right ankle sustained during Sunday's 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid, according to the club.
Analysis: Espart faces an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a significant ankle injury during Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid. The young defender was forced off in the 29th minute following a collision with an opposing player, with subsequent medical examinations confirming damage to the syndesmosis joint in his right ankle. Barcelona have established an estimated recovery period of seven weeks, potentially keeping Espart unavailable until mid-December. The setback comes at an unfortunate time for the youngster, who had recently established himself as a starting option at full-back amid Barcelona's defensive injury problems. Alex Balde replaced him during Sunday's encounter and is expected to benefit from increased playing time while Espart recovers. The defender will now focus on his rehabilitation, with his return to competitive action dependent on how his ankle responds to treatment over the coming weeks.
Off with ankle injury
Espart was forced off the field in the 29th minute of Sunday's match against Real Madrid due to an apparent ankle injury.
Analysis: Espart was holding the starting role for Barcelona at full-back recently, but had to give up his spot before halftime Sunday, appearing to come away from a challenge with a twisted ankle. He should be set for testing immediately as they address the issue, hoping he doesn't miss too much time, if any at all. He was replaced by Alex Balde, likely his replacement moving forward if Espart does miss time due to the injuries in the defense.
Scores first Champions League goal
Espart scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) and one chance created in Tuesday's 4-2 defeat versus Paris Saint-Germain.
Analysis: Espart marked his Champions League debut with a memorable performance, scoring Barcelona's first equalizer in the 55th minute after making a forward run to meet Fermin Lopez's pass. The young defender also contributed three tackles, while operating at right-back amid Barcelona's defensive injury problems. Although he faces competition from Joao Cancelo for playing time at full-back, the current shortage of defensive options has opened the door for him to feature more prominently. His goal and encouraging defensive display could strengthen his case for further opportunities in the coming matches.
Extends contract with Barca
Espart extended his contract with FC Barcelona until the end of the 2029/30 season Thursday.
Analysis: Espart has started five times for Barcelona in the current LaLiga campaign, although he's been on the bench in the last two. He's seen as the long-term solution at left-back, and the club has locked him up for the next four seasons. Joao Cancelo and Alex Balde can also play at left-back, but it's clear that Espart is here to stay after signing this new deal.
Nets on Sunday
Espart scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Sunday's 4-2 victory against Levante.
Analysis: Espart netted the opener in the fifth minute assisted by Raphinha. He put up a tireless performance covering nine kilometres, recording 47 passes and making five clearances and a tackle before being replaced in the 80th minute. He has started all five games this campaign and has already contributed to three goals.
Adds assist
Espart assisted once to go with one shot (zero on goal), two crosses (zero accurate) and two chances created in Monday's 5-2 victory versus Rayo Vallecano.
Analysis: Espart created a pair of chances during Monday's win and earned a single assist during the match. He did well during his time on the pitch, but his shot wasn't much to write home about. The midfielder isn't likely to be a major offensive threat going forward, but that doesn't make this performance any worse.
Secures first La Liga goal involvement
Espart had an assist with his lone chance created while making six tackles (winning two) and five clearances during Sunday's 5-0 win over Elche.
Analysis: Espart set up Fermin in the 79th minute assisting Barca's final goal of the match. It was the first La Liga goal involvement for Espart as the start matched all of last seasons total for the left back.
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