Barcelona have confirmed that Xavi Espart will be out for seven weeks after the youngster was forced off early in Sunday’s Clasico against Real Madrid.
Espart has been a revelation for Barcelona this season but had to go off following a challenge by Aurélien Tchouaméni and was replaced by Alejandro Balde.
The defender has now undergone tests and is set for quite some time on the sidelines.
“The tests carried out have confirmed that Xavi Espart is suffering from an injury to the syndesmosis of the right ankle as a result of a traumatic action with an opposing player during the match against Real Madrid.
“The estimated time out is approximately seven weeks,” the club said in a statement.
Espart’s injury is a huge blow to Barcelona and leaves Hansi Flick short of defensive options, particularly ahead of upcoming game against Alaves, Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid.
It’s hoped that Jules Kounde should be fit to return at the weekend but Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen remain sidelined along with Espart.