Barcelona’s victory in the Copa del Rey against Real Madrid showcased their resilience but also highlighted areas in need of improvement for next season. Following the match, manager Hansi Flick and president Joan Laporta agreed that strengthening the left-back position would be a priority in the upcoming transfer window.
With Alejandro Balde injured, Barcelona had to rely on young prospect Gerard Martin for the final. While Martin had shown promise throughout the season, the high-pressure nature of the Clásico exposed his lack of experience. He struggled defensively against Real Madrid’s persistent attacks and was unable to make a significant contribution going forward.
As reported by El Nacional, although Martin has been effective in less challenging games, the Copa del Rey final underscored Barcelona’s need for a more reliable and experienced left-back for crucial matches, particularly when Balde is unavailable. Aware of this, Flick and Laporta met after the game and agreed that addressing this gap is urgent.
Flick has reportedly singled out Álvaro Carreras, a Spanish left-back currently with Benfica, as his top target. Carreras, who impressed Flick in a recent match against Barcelona, is known for his strong defensive abilities and support in attack, making him an ideal fit for the team. The plan would involve Carreras providing competition for Balde and offering a dependable alternative when needed.
Joan Laporta, acknowledging the manager’s concerns, has already begun discussions with the club’s technical staff to secure the signing. Barcelona is prioritizing the left-back position and aims to finalize a deal quickly to prepare for a demanding 2025–26 season, with the club intent on competing for all major trophies.
With Flick and Laporta fully aligned, reinforcing the left side of the defense is seen as a critical move to build a well-rounded and competitive squad for the next phase of Barcelona’s ambitious project.