Xavi Espart to miss seven weeks with ankle injury after El Clasico

FC Barcelona defender Xavi Espart faces approximately seven weeks on the sidelines after suffering a right ankle injury during El Clásico against Real Madrid, according to club reports. The young fullback sustained a syndesmosis injury in his right ankle resulting from a traumatic collision with an opposing player during the match. The absence compounds a growing defensive crisis for manager Hansi Flick, who is already managing a crowded treatment room across multiple positions.

Defensive Strain Intensifies at Barcelona

The loss of Espart adds to a severe defensive shortage for Flick, El Periódico reported, forcing the German coach to heavily reshuffle his backline. Jules Koundé is currently out with an ankle sprain, while Eric Garcia is recovering from a rectus femoris muscle injury in his right thigh, which carries an initial recovery timeline of three to four weeks. Andreas Christensen also remains unavailable due to a quadriceps muscle strain. These combined absences strip Barcelona of experienced alternatives in the defensive third.

The squad’s depth problems extend further into the midfield and attack. Dani Olmo suffered an adductor injury during the match against Paris Saint-Germain and faces an estimated four-week recovery period, limiting Barcelona’s capacity to orchestrate play between the lines and link the midfield to the forward line. Meanwhile, Roony Bardghji continues his long-term rehabilitation following a cruciate ligament injury, with club projections pointing toward a return in 2027.

Espart Misses Seven Weeks with Ankle Injury

Espart will miss a crucial block of fixtures across domestic and European competitions as he works through his rehabilitation program. Medical staff estimate his return to training will take roughly seven weeks, pending the stability of his right ankle syndesmosis. Barcelona returns to competitive action in the coming days as Flick attempts to patch together a competitive lineup from an increasingly depleted roster.

More on this story: Xavi Espart Eager for First El Clasico as Barcelona Prepares to Face Real Madrid · Eric García ruled out for weeks and Kounde doubtful