‘Means everything’ – Xavi Espart sends heartfelt message to Hansi Flick after Barcelona debut

Barcelona defender Xavi Espart has expressed deep gratitude to manager Hansi Flick after making his senior debut in Wednesday’s Champions League clash at Newcastle. The 20-year-old, introduced at St James’ Park for the final minutes of the 2–1 victory, said the confidence shown by the German coach “means everything” as he begins his first-team journey.

Flick, who earlier this week compared Espart’s versatility and intelligence to that of Germany great Philipp Lahm, turned to the academy graduate with Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde sidelined through injury. The decision paid immediate dividends: Espart slotted seamlessly into the back line, helping the visitors secure a pivotal three points in Group F.

Speaking to Barça TV after the match, Espart admitted the moment had been months in the making. “I really wanted this, but it doesn’t end here,” he said. “I have to keep working and hopefully more chances will come. For a young player like me, the coach trusting me means everything. I’m really grateful to him. The fact that he trusts me helps me stay calm and not feel so much pressure.”

Espart revealed that Flick’s instructions were simple: play naturally and avoid overthinking the occasion. “He doesn’t ask anything special from me, just to play the way I know how to play, not to put pressure on myself. Ultimately, if I’m calm and play my game, everything will go well.”

With Koundé and Balde expected to remain unavailable for Sunday’s La Liga meeting with Sevilla, Espart could be in line for a second consecutive appearance. The Catalan insists he is ready. “Now it’s about taking it calm, carrying on training and working, and being ready if more chances come so I can take advantage of them.”

Flick’s faith in youth has already yielded results this season, and Espart’s emergence adds another layer of depth to a squad navigating domestic and European commitments. Should he feature against Sevilla at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, the defender will hope to repay the manager’s trust with another composed display at right-back.