Xavi Espart limps with an ankle issue: a doubt for El Clásico
Replaced in the 74th minute vs PSG, Barça’s full-back hopes to be ready for Sunday’s clash with Real Madrid.
Xavi Espart (Barcelona) was substituted in the 74th minute against PSG, with Barça trailing 2-1, after feeling ankle discomfort. The change was made out of caution, though the club expects him to be available for Sunday’s match against Real Madrid.
The timing of the swap surprised some given the performance level, but it was read as a minutes-management move for El Clásico. Immediately after coming off, Espart had a brief exchange with the team’s physio.
Barça’s defensive concerns add pressure: Eric García is a guaranteed absence, while Jules Koundé has a sprained left ankle. If Espart can’t play, Flick would have Cancelo and Alejandro Balde as the only options at full-back—the same player who came on for Espart and has logged very few minutes this season.
Real Madrid
RB LeipzigWednesday 21 October · 15:00Kick-off, where to watch and line-ups →
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