Barcelona have been dealt a significant setback in defence with the news that Xavi Espart is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The young full-back suffered a serious ankle injury during Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid and is not expected to feature again until 2027.
Injury confirmation for young defender
Barcelona's defensive resources have been stretched even further following the news that Espart faces a significant period out of action. The young full-back now joins a crowded treatment room that already features Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen and Dani Olmo.
The official medical statement released by the club on Monday detailed the nature of the setback, noting that the injury occurred during a specific moment of physical impact. The communication explained that 'Tests carried out have confirmed that Xavi Espart is suffering from an injury to the syndesmosis joint in his right ankle due to a collision with an opposing player in the game against Real Madrid. The player will be out for around seven weeks.'
The Tchouameni challenge analyzed
The injury was sustained in the ninth minute of the high-stakes encounter against Real Madrid, following a robust sliding challenge from Aurelien Tchouameni. Although the French international midfielder managed to connect with the ball first, his momentum resulted in him crashing into Espart's ankle with significant force.
Remarkably, Espart attempted to play through the pain for over twenty minutes, eventually being forced off the field in the 30th minute when it became clear he could no longer continue. The defender had entered the match with existing discomfort after a bruising encounter in Paris, where he was substituted late in the game.
Long road to recovery ahead
A syndesmosis injury is particularly troublesome for footballers due to the stability required in the ankle joint for quick changes of direction. This specific type of ligament damage is the same one that sidelined Frenkie de Jong for a substantial period in recent seasons, highlighting the caution that the medical department will likely exercise.
Espart has made nine appearances across all competitions so far this season, directly contributing to four goals with two strikes and two assists.
Crucial period ahead for Barcelona
Espart's injury comes at a challenging time for Barcelona, as the club looks to regain its footing after suffering back-to-back defeats against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and Real Madrid in Sunday's El Clasico. The Catalan side will host Alaves on Saturday, followed by a Champions League clash against Aston Villa at home on November 3, before travelling to face Atletico Madrid on November 8.