FC Barcelona integrates La Masia talents Xavi Espart and Brian Farinas

FC Barcelona is increasingly integrating youth academy products from La Masia into its first team under manager Hansi Flick.

Nineteen-year-old left-back Xavi Espart has emerged as a primary option for the 2026/27 season. After starting three consecutive La Liga matches without being substituted, Espart has established himself as a consistent starter, notably contributing an assist and high defensive statistics during a 5-2 victory against Rayo Vallecano.

Additionally, 20-year-old midfielder Brian Farinas has been officially promoted to the senior squad. Farinas, who joined the academy in 2018, will wear the number 4 shirt. His promotion follows a successful tenure with the U19 team, where he helped secure a treble, and a strong season with Barça Atlètic, where he recorded five goals and six assists in 35 appearances.