Barcelona defender Xavi Espart faces seven-week absence after Real Madrid defeat

Barcelona defender Xavi Espart is expected to miss around seven weeks with a right ankle injury sustained during Sunday’s 2-1 home defeat by Real Madrid in LaLiga.

The 19-year-old was replaced by Alejandro Balde in the 30th minute after being injured in a collision with a Real Madrid player. Barcelona confirmed the extent of the injury in a club statement.

Espart has made nine appearances for the Catalan club this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists. His absence adds to Barcelona’s defensive problems, with Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia already sidelined through injury.

Barcelona now have only Joao Cancelo, Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin available as defenders in the squad.

The timing of Espart’s injury means he may not play again in 2026. Barcelona’s final match of the year is scheduled for December 20.