Alejandro Balde has rejected the possibility of leaving Barcelona despite a difficult start to the season, with the 22-year-old left-back having played only 12 minutes and fallen out of favour with manager Hansi Flick.
Barcelona and Flick were prepared to allow Balde to leave during the summer after deciding he was unlikely to be their first-choice option at left-back, according to Marca. However, the player chose to remain at the Catalan club and is under contract until June 2028.
Balde has made just one La Liga appearance this season, coming on as a substitute for the final 12 minutes against Racing at Camp Nou. He was absent from the squad for the opening match against Elche and has not featured in Barcelona’s other six league matches.
He also missed the Champions League game against Feyenoord.
Flick believes Balde is capable of performing at a higher level and making a greater contribution, but currently favours Xavi Espart and Joao Cancelo in the competition for the left-back position. The manager considers both players to be in better physical condition at present.
Despite his limited involvement, Balde does not currently intend to leave Barcelona. He believes the season is still long enough for opportunities to arise and expects the congested fixture schedule to give him chances to demonstrate his ability and earn more playing time.
That stance means he remains committed to completing the season with Barcelona, although the club would not oppose a departure if he changes his position.
Barcelona have several alternatives at left-back and value Balde at about 60m euros. A sale could provide funds to improve the club’s financial situation and strengthen the squad during the January transfer window.
The club viewed Balde’s departure as a suitable deal during the summer, but negotiations did not progress because the player rejected the offers he received. Manchester United, Manchester City, Benfica and Aston Villa were among the clubs showing interest.
Barcelona need to sell some players before they can act decisively in the winter transfer market. Balde’s departure is therefore one option under consideration, as it would generate a transfer fee and reduce the wage bill.
Club officials do not believe his exit would leave a significant gap in the squad, given the alternatives available in his position. However, for now, Balde intends to stay and compete for a greater role under Flick.
