Barcelona is grappling with a significant dip in the performances of several key players, causing concern for coach Hansi Flick. Once essential to his plans, some players have struggled to maintain their best form, raising doubts about their reliability.
According to the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, this decline could result in the loss of their starting positions within the team.
One standout case is Alejandro Balde, whose performance issues have been particularly noticeable. After facing criticism last season for his decline in form, Balde was expected to bounce back this year. However, a severe injury sidelined him for several months, and his return has yet to meet expectations.
Flick had shown unwavering faith in Balde, dismissing any notion of selling him over the summer, but ongoing physical challenges have kept the left-back from reaching the heights he achieved two seasons ago when he was regarded as one of the world’s best in his position.
This situation has prompted Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, and president Joan Laporta to consider signing a new left-back to provide competition for the starting role.
Current alternatives, such as Gerard Martín, are deemed unreliable, leading to speculation about potential signings like Alejandro Grimaldo or Alphonso Davies. Balde now faces an uphill battle to secure his place in Barcelona’s squad, especially with external reinforcements being considered.
Balde’s struggles have also impacted his standing in the Spanish national team under coach Luis de la Fuente. Despite being seen as a potential successor to Jordi Alba, Balde has not been called up to the national team in over a year.
He missed the European Championship due to injury, and his current form has made him a less viable option for La Roja. De la Fuente, meanwhile, has shifted focus to other talented left-backs, including Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo, Miguel Gutiérrez, and Álvaro Carreras.
To regain his place at both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, Balde must demonstrate improved performances and consistency. While he remains hopeful of returning to the international stage, the competition is fierce.
His ability to rise to the challenge and recapture his earlier form will determine his future at Camp Nou and with the Spanish national team.
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