Flick closely following La Masia full-back impressing for youth and reserve teams | OneFootball

During his time at FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick has made it a point to keep a close eye on the reserve team as well as the youth squads for up-and-coming talents with potential.

The German tactician has not been shy of handing chances to youngsters from La Masia so far, having handed breakthroughs to players like Marc Bernal, Toni Fernandez, Jofre Torrents, and Dro, among others.

Flick handed a training opportunity to 16-year-old gem Baba Kourouma, one of the most highly-rated prospects, earlier this week.

Xavi Espart catches Flick’s eye

Now, according to SPORT, Barça Atletic right-back Xavi Espart has caught the eye of Flick, who is keeping a close eye on the teenage prodigy.

Having been a key part of the treble-winning Juvenil A setup last season, the 18-year-old has made the jump to the reserve team this season alongside manager Juliano Belletti and is already shining.

Xavi Espart (L) has caught Flick’s eye. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Formerly a defensive midfielder, Espart is excelling in his new role at right-back and is shining with both the reserve team and Juvenil A setup this season.

In just four games (two in Segunda RFEF, one in the UEFA Youth League and the U-20 Intercontinental Cup at Maracana), he has scored twice and provided two assists.

Espart is one of Barça Atletic’s captains, alongside Alvaro Cortes, Alexis Olmedo and Brian Farinas, indicating the faith that Belletti has in him.

Now, Flick, too, has taken note of Espart’s potential and recently called him up to train with the first-team squad.

On 11 August, Barcelona secured Espart’s future by extending his contract until 2028 – a firm commitment to a player already seen as part of the club’s present, not just the future.