Pedri doubt opens door for versatile Barcelona teenager to start La Liga opener vs Elche

Xavi Espart could be handed one of the biggest opportunities of his young Barcelona career on Sunday, with the La Masia midfielder in contention to start the 2026/27 La Liga opener against Elche, reports SPORT.

The teenager has impressed Hansi Flick throughout pre-season and already received a major vote of confidence when he started the Joan Gamper Trophy, Barcelona’s final dress rehearsal before competitive football begins.

Now, Pedri’s gradual return following his post-World Cup break could open the door for Espart to keep his place.

As for Espart, a start against Elche would put four members of the club’s highly-rated 2007 generation on the pitch together in a competitive match, including Pau Cubarsi, Marc Bernal and Lamine Yamal.

Espart has earned Flick’s trust

Espart has not found himself in this position by accident, as his versatility has been one of his biggest strengths throughout pre-season. 

Flick is impressed with Xavi Espart’s contribution. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Although he featured predominantly at right-back during his six senior appearances last season, his ability to operate in midfield gives Flick another solution.

Sure, Flick gave Espart a taste of first-team football last season, but the teenager has taken another step forward this summer. 

His performances during pre-season have convinced the Barcelona coach that he can compete with more established options.

Now, with Barcelona preparing for the start of La Liga, Flick used Espart from the beginning, and that decision has naturally strengthened the possibility of another start against Elche.

Pedri’s gradual return could open the door at Elche

Amid all this, it is also important to note that Pedri’s situation is the key factor.

Xavi Espart could start against Elche. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

The Spanish midfielder has been eased back into the group after returning from his World Cup break, and Flick must decide whether he is ready to start the first league game. 

If the coach prefers to manage Pedri’s minutes, Espart has positioned himself as a credible alternative.

Pedri has been returning gradually, and throwing him straight into a full starting role may not be the preferred approach. 

Espart, on the other hand, has completed pre-season and already knows what Flick expects from him, giving the manager a simple choice.