According to a report by GOAL on Monday October 26, 2026, Barcelona have suffered another defensive setback after Xavi Espart was ruled out for around seven weeks with an ankle injury sustained during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid.

Espart picked up the injury in the ninth minute of the El Clasico following a strong sliding challenge from Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. Although Tchouameni appeared to make contact with the ball first, his momentum carried him into Espart’s ankle, leaving the Barcelona defender in discomfort.

The young full-back attempted to continue but was eventually forced off in the 30th minute after struggling to play through the pain.

Barcelona confirmed that medical tests had revealed an injury to the syndesmosis joint in Espart’s right ankle. The club expects him to be sidelined for approximately seven weeks.

The injury is another blow for a Barcelona side already dealing with several absences. Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen and Dani Olmo are also among the players currently dealing with fitness issues.

Espart has made nine appearances across all competitions this season, contributing two goals and two assists. His absence could therefore leave Barcelona short of another useful option as they look to recover from consecutive defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

Barcelona face Alaves next before their Champions League meeting with Aston Villa and a trip to Atletico Madrid, making Espart’s injury an untimely setback for Hansi Flick’s side.