Spain U21 boss compares Barcelona breakthrough star to Pedri: ‘His greatest strength is…’

Xavi Espart’s rapid rise at Barcelona has earned recognition at the international level, with the 19-year-old receiving his first call-up to Spain’s Under-21 squad.

The Barcelona homegrown player is the headline addition to David Gordo’s squad for the upcoming European Championship qualifiers against Finland, San Marino and Romania.

Espart makes the step up from the Under-19s, having helped Spain win the European Under-19 Championship last summer.

His promotion comes after a remarkable start to the 2026-27 campaign, during which Espart has gone from highly rated prospect to a regular part of Hansi Flick’s first-choice plans.

Spain U21 coach highlights Espart’s football intelligence

Gordo has been particularly impressed by the fact that Espart is already performing at senior level despite being just 19 years of age.

The Spain coach began by praising Barcelona and Flick for giving the teenager the opportunity to establish himself.

“I like to see teams putting their faith in him. Of course, I’m blown away when I see Under-21 players performing at that level.

“Xavi has just come off the back of winning the Under-19 title,” he said, as per Mundo Deportivo.

The Spain boss then explained what separates Espart from many players his age. His ability to understand situations before they develop has stood out, regardless of where Barcelona use him.

“His greatest strength is that he reads the game, space and timing very well. And he can do so from any position. He’s decisive as a central midfielder and as a full-back.

“He’s very intelligent. He’s always one step ahead in every situation. In some ways, he reminds me of Pedri because of the way he understands the game. It’s as if time moves differently for him.”

Espart has forced his way into Flick’s plans

The comparison with Pedri is notable given how quickly Espart has adapted to Barcelona’s first team.

The 19-year-old was already regarded highly within the club, but his emergence this season, thanks to his versatility, has exceeded expectations.

Flick has trusted him with a prominent role as a left-back, and Espart has taken advantage of the opportunity.

He has moved ahead of both Joao Cancelo and Alejandro Balde in the competition for the left-back position while also possessing the ability to operate in midfield.

Notably, Espart was rested for the midweek victory over Racing Santander and despite Cancelo scoring twice in his absence, it is unlikely that he will be rested again against Sevilla this weekend.

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