FC Barcelona squad number updates

FC Barcelona has implemented changes to its squad numbers for the upcoming season.

Following the departure of Marc-Andre ter Stegen to Ajax, Joan Garcia has been assigned the number 1 shirt. This change resulted in Wojciech Szczęsny moving from number 25 to number 13, where he will serve as the second-choice goalkeeper.

Additionally, youth player Xavi Espart has been integrated into the first-team squad. The 19-year-old La Masia graduate has officially taken the number 12 jersey, which has been vacant since the 2021-22 season. After a clean-sheet performance in the La Liga opener against Elche CF, Espart has become a regular fixture in the starting lineup.

Manager Hansi Flick has praised Espart’s tactical intelligence, composure, and technical ability, comparing his potential to that of Philipp Lahm. While his deployment as a left-back against Athletic Club drew mixed reactions from supporters, Flick has noted his versatility to play as a right-back, defensive midfielder, or central midfielder. Following his successful integration, Barcelona management is reportedly looking to adjust Espart’s salary and extend his contract, which currently runs until 2028, once the transfer window closes.