The newspaper 'Sport' reported today on the future of a Barcelona player who had been linked with a departure from the Catalan club over the past period, only to ultimately remain.
Alejandro Balde was reportedly a candidate to leave Barcelona during the recently concluded summer transfer window, given his loss of a starting position in the team. Coach Hans Flick relies on Xavi Espart's services at left-back, alongside signing João Cancelo on a free transfer after his contract termination with Al-Hilal Saudi Club.
However, despite being linked with moves to several clubs, most notably Manchester United, Balde ultimately remained with Barcelona.
Sport mentioned that Barcelona was prepared to sell Balde this summer and informed the player's agent accordingly, as the left-back's performance declined noticeably during the final months of last season compared to Flick's first season as Barça's coach.
It added that Balde, for his part, insisted on staying at Barcelona and earning his opportunity under Flick, while remaining under contract with the Blaugrana until June 2028.
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Flick is considered disappointed with Balde's level. Sport clarified that the German coach believes the 22-year-old possesses enormous potential but lacks certain qualities. Flick prefers relying on players with versatile capabilities, which explains his dependence on Xavi Espart as a left-back, alongside his insistence on bringing back Cancelo.
It further added that Flick held a meeting with Balde last August, where the German coach asked the player to seek a club to join, given the likelihood of reduced playing time this season with Barcelona.
Sport continued, explaining that Barcelona, led by sporting director Deco, attempted to offload Balde. The club even used the player to present an offer to Inter Milan in exchange for Federico Dimarco, but the Italian club rejected this proposal. Meanwhile, negotiations with Manchester United made no progress.
Flick had previously criticized Balde publicly during a prior press conference, stating that every player must demonstrate determination to compete for their place in the team.
Sport further noted that Balde's exclusion from Barcelona's La Liga match against Elche marked a turning point regarding his future. The player learned of his omission from the matchday squad upon arriving at the training center on the day of the game, leaving the left-back shocked, along with the rest of his teammates.
It added that Flick believes Balde has not met expected standards due to the player's failure to adhere to the criteria set by the German coach, which are based on commitment and seriousness. Despite this, Balde remained at Barcelona and did not depart.
Sport concluded by stating that Balde will remain within Barcelona's squad as a substitute. His playing time will depend on how matches unfold and what the technical staff requires of him. The left-back may still get his opportunity given the length of the season and the possibility of players sustaining injuries.
