Barcelona teenage gem in with a good chance to start against Rayo Vallecano | OneFootball

The past week or so has been a very memorable one for FC Barcelona youngster Xavi Espart.

The 18-year-old right-back made his first-team debut for the Blaugrana last week in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 against Newcastle United, coming on as a late substitute.

Following that, the La Masia made his first-ever start for the club against Sevilla last weekend, before receiving more minutes against Newcastle in the second leg this week.

Another start beckons against Rayo Vallecano

Now, according to SPORT, Xavi Espart has a very good chance of starting for Barcelona when they face Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Sunday afternoon.

Since taking over the reins at Barça back in 2024, Flick has shown no shortage of courage when it comes to trusting young players.

And, Espart became the latest of nine academy products who received an opportunity under the German manager’s tutelage.

Xavi Espart to start vs Rayo Vallecano. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

In Espart’s case, his rise has come partly due to a defensive injury crisis, with both Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde out.

But there are two key reasons behind his opportunities: his own performances and Flick’s willingness to trust players from lower ranks who are ready to step up.

His minutes in high-pressure games against Newcastle, as well as an impressive showing against Sevilla, have accelerated Espart’s development. He’s showing maturity beyond his years, along with confidence and composure.

Flick had already noticed something special in him earlier in the season, when he trained with the first team for several weeks before getting injured. And the manager will not hesitate to continue giving him chances, starting against Rayo Vallecano.