Hansi Flick rewards Barcelona youngster after outstanding Euro U19 triumph with Spain

Hansi Flick rewards Barcelona youngster after outstanding Euro U19 triumph with Spain Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has rewarded one of the club’s brightest academy prospects after a demanding summer, with Xavi Espart being granted additional time off following his success with Spain at the UEFA European Under-19 Championship.  According to SPORT , Flick has allowed Espart to remain away from training until next Monday after the midfielder helped Spain lift the UEFA European Under-19 Championship. The decision comes after an intense period in which the youngster balanced international commitments with his responsibilities at Barcelona. Flick rewards Espart after Spain U19 success Espart returned from the tournament as a European champion after playing an important role in Spain’s victorious campaign. Although naturally a midfielder, a position where he plays for the national team, the academy graduate showcased the versatility that has made him one of the standout prospects within La Masia.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝑿𝑨𝑽𝑰 𝑬𝑺𝑷𝑨𝑹𝑻 (@xaviespart) During the second half of last season, Flick deployed him at right-back, while the youngster is also capable of operating as a holding midfielder or in a more advanced role where he can contribute in the final third. That tactical flexibility is regarded as one of his biggest strengths and has significantly increased his chances of remaining involved with the senior squad during pre-season. According to the report, Flick’s decision to give the youngster extra time off was made in recognition of the demanding schedule he has faced over recent weeks. Barcelona weighing up Espart’s role for the new season The report adds that Barcelona’s coaching staff are still evaluating the next step in Espart’s development . His ability to perform in multiple positions has impressed Flick, although the club will decide whether the youngster remains with the first team or continues his development with a loan move elsewhere. Flick has given Espart extra time off. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) That decision is expected to depend on his performances during pre-season and the competition for places in Barcelona’s squad. Despite working at a high intensity since returning from international duty and being in excellent physical condition, the coaching staff has prioritised recovery after what has been an exceptionally demanding summer for the teenager. For now, no decision has been made regarding his future, and nothing is expected immediately as well. However, if Barcelona decide to loan him out, one can expect the transfer to take place towards the end of the window.