Many Barcelona players are showing a significant decline in form, falling far from their peak performances. This dip has raised concerns for Hansi Flick, who is increasingly anxious about the struggles of key players once considered crucial to his squad. According to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, this downturn could lead to some players losing their place as essential team members. One notable example is Alejandro Balde, whose poor form has raised particular concern.
After a season filled with criticism of his performances, Balde was expected to bounce back strongly this season after recovering from a lengthy injury that kept him out for months. Hansi Flick, confident in his potential, resisted selling him in the summer, hoping for a solid recovery. However, Balde’s ongoing physical issues have left him far from the level he showed two seasons ago, when he was considered one of the top left-backs in the world.
As a result, Deco and Joan Laporta are now considering signing a new left-back to compete with the current options, as Gerard Martín is seen as unreliable. Alejandro Grimaldo and Alphonso Davies have been suggested as potential targets.
Balde now faces a significant challenge to secure his place at Barcelona, and his chances with the Spanish national team are also at risk. He has not been called up to “La Roja” for over a year and missed the European Championship due to injury. Although he hopes to regain his spot, Luis de la Fuente is unlikely to rely on him if his form does not improve, despite many believing Balde was destined to succeed Jordi Alba both at Barcelona and internationally.
The competition for the left-back position in the national team is intense, with Marc Cucurella and Alejandro Grimaldo being key contenders, while Miguel Gutiérrez and Álvaro Carreras are also on De la Fuente’s radar. To secure his place both at Barcelona and in the national team, Balde must improve his performances and take on more responsibility at the club.
