Barcelona defender Espart ruled out for seven weeks after Clasico injury

Barcelona defender Xavi Espart will miss the next seven weeks of action after picking up an injury during the weekend's El Clasico encounter against Real Madrid at the Bernabéu. The Spanish giants suffered a 2-1 defeat in the high-stakes fixture, with Espart's injury compounding what has become a frustrating period for manager Xavi Hernández.

The loss to their arch-rivals leaves Barcelona's medical department facing mounting pressure, as the club navigates an expanded injury list that threatens to disrupt their campaign. Espart's absence means the club will need to rely on alternative defensive options for the coming weeks.

Barcelona's next challenge comes as they seek to maintain their competitive position in La Liga while managing significant personnel issues. The club has not disclosed the specific nature of Espart's injury, though the seven-week timeline represents a significant period out of action during a crucial stage of the season.