‘I’ll keep giving 100% to stay here’ – Xavi Espart talks Barcelona future after FC Basel win

Udine, Italy - August 08: Xavi Espart of FC Barcelona expressed his commitment to proving himself to manager Hansi Flick and securing a spot in the first team following a strong pre-season performance. The 19-year-old midfielder shone in Barcelona's 5-2 victory over FC Basel, displaying his versatility by also playing right-back.

Espart, who has experience playing central midfield at the European Championship, is comfortable switching positions and has been pushing to be at his best since returning from the tournament. He told reporters, "I’ll keep giving 100% to stay here and hope I can play in Elche, but you never know in football. I take it one game at a time and one training session at a time."

Espart acknowledged the intense competition to maintain a place in Barcelona's lineup and the high expectations set by Flick and the coaching staff. "It’s very difficult to get there, but what’s really hard is staying there due to the demands placed on these players. In the end, it’s Barça, the best team in the world, and the demands are every day; you can never let up.

It’s every day with enthusiasm and working to the fullest," he added. Flick's praise for Espart last season, likening him to football legend Philipp Lahm, suggests the young midfielder could have a bright future with the club.