Barcelona’s Xavi Espart Ruled Out for Around Seven Weeks

Barcelona defender Xavi Espart is expected to miss around seven weeks after suffering a right ankle injury against Real Madrid, the club announced Monday, October 26.

Tests confirmed an injury to the ankle’s syndesmosis joint following a collision with an opposing player during Sunday’s Clásico at Spotify Camp Nou in Barcelona, according to Barcelona’s medical update.

Espart was replaced by Alejandro Balde in the 30th minute of the 2–1 home defeat, Reuters reported. The 19-year-old fullback has made nine appearances this season, contributing two goals and two assists.

The absence adds to Barcelona’s defensive injuries. Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé and Eric García were already unavailable, according to Reuters, reducing coach Hansi Flick’s options across the back line. The available defenders listed in the Reuters report are João Cancelo, Balde, Pau Cubarsí and Gerard Martín.

Barcelona also recently projected around a month out for midfielder Dani Olmo after an adductor injury.