Xavi Espart Ruled Out for Around Seven Weeks With Right Ankle Injury

Barcelona have confirmed that Xavi Espart will be out for around seven weeks after suffering an injury to the syndesmosis joint in his right ankle. The club announced the diagnosis on 26 October 2026, following tests on the injury he sustained in the 2-1 home defeat to Real Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou on 25 October.

The club said the injury was caused by a traumatic action with an opposing player during the match. Reports identify the challenge as one involving Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Espart was replaced by Alejandro Balde in the 30th minute.

What the Club Said

Barcelona’s statement read: “The tests carried out have confirmed that Xavi Espart is suffering from an injury to the syndesmosis of the right ankle.” The club added that the estimated time out was “approximately seven weeks.”

The statement did not set a firm return date, and the length of the absence has since been the subject of further reporting.

Key Details at a Glance

Matches Espart Will Miss

Reports list the fixtures Espart is expected to miss, including LaLiga matches against Alavés, Atlético Madrid, Villarreal, Deportivo and Celta Vigo, and Champions League ties against Manchester City, Sabah and Aston Villa.

The list shows how much of the early part of the schedule the injury covers, at a time when Barcelona are playing both domestic and European matches.

Hansi Flick’s Update

Reports say Hansi Flick has indicated that Espart could remain unavailable until the first match of 2027. Flick was quoted as saying that Espart might return at the start of 2027, and he listed Espart, Eric García, Christensen and Koundé among his injured players.

A separate report by FútbolFantasy suggested Espart could be back around mid-December if his recovery goes to plan. The reports differ, so the timeline should be treated as uncertain until the club gives a further update.

Barcelona’s Defensive Problems

Espart’s absence adds to a growing list of injuries for Barcelona’s defence. Reports say Eric García, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen and Dani Olmo were also sidelined around the time of the Real Madrid match.

Barcelona have had to rely on Balde and academy players as options at full-back, according to reports.

A Breakthrough Season

Espart has been a key figure for Barcelona this season. Reports say he recorded two goals and two assists in nine appearances across competitions before the injury. Hansi Flick had made him a regular part of the tactical setup.

His versatility has been one of the reasons for his rise. He has been used at full-back, and reports have described him as a useful option in several positions.

What Comes Next

Barcelona will provide an update on Espart’s recovery as his rehabilitation progresses. The next key question is whether he can return in December, or whether the club will need to wait until 2027.

For Espart, the injury comes at an important stage of his development. For Barcelona, the timing is significant, with the squad facing a demanding run of fixtures.

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