Espart: “I’m from the reserve team, I’m registered with the reserves. Right now I’m with the first team. Wherever I am, I try to give my maximum. I’m always very grateful for the opportunities and try to take advantage of them as much as I can. “

The full-back explained that he finished the match with cramps after playing the full 90 minutes, but says he feels physically fine.

Xavi Espart (18) spent Saturday afternoon watching Barça Atlètic at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. He was accompanied by Tommy Marqués. Less than 24 hours later, both were at Spotify Camp Nou to face Sevilla. After making his first-team debut against Newcastle, Espart experienced his first match at Barça’s stadium.

“It was incredible to play at Camp Nou, and even more so as a starter. It’s crazy. I experienced it with excitement and tried to give everything. In the end we managed to win, so I’m very happy,” Espart said after the match.

The full-back explained what Hansi Flick told him before his home debut:

“He asks me to have confidence—he trusts me. He tells me not to play with fear. If I play my own game, everything will go well,” he revealed.

Even though he is currently training with Flick’s squad, the young defender is aware of his situation:

“I’m from the reserve team, I’m registered with the reserves. Right now I’m with the first team. Wherever I am, I try to give my maximum. I’m always very grateful for the opportunities and try to take advantage of them as much as I can,” he said.

Just as Gavi was about to make his return, it looked like the substitution might be delayed because Espart appeared to be struggling physically.

“They were cramps,” the academy player explained. “Everything was tightening up. I tried to hold on—it’s just one of those things,” he concluded.