Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has signaled that one of the club's emerging defensive talents is set for a bigger role in the upcoming season. The player in question is Xavi Espart, an 18-year-old who has already caught the eye during his initial first-team opportunities.

Espart, a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, has been steadily integrating into the senior squad over recent months. With injuries and depth issues plaguing the Blaugrana backline, Flick turned to the young defender, who responded with a series of promising performances. Most notably, Espart started in a La Liga clash against Sevilla, where he impressed from the right-back position, showcasing composure and attacking intent beyond his years.

That display ignited calls from the Barcelona faithful for the youngster to be given a more permanent role in the starting XI. Now, with the 2026/27 campaign on the horizon, it appears those wishes may be granted. Speaking to the media on Friday, Flick offered high praise for Espart, stating: "Xavi Espart is delivering a good performance. I greatly appreciate what I see from him, and this is our way, how we want to handle him as well. For me, in the next season, he will be a very good option for this position, and of course, he is also an option for the upcoming matches."

For Barcelona fans, this is an exciting development—a homegrown talent poised to step up when the team needs fresh legs and youthful energy. As Espart continues to develop, his rise could be a key storyline to watch in the months ahead, especially for those looking to sport the latest Blaugrana gear in support of the next generation.