Barcelona: Hansi Flick confirms Alejandro Balde’s frustration

The Spanish left-back could leave in January after falling behind João Cancelo and Xavi Espart

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Barcelona: Hansi Flick confirms Alejandro Balde’s frustration

Without a competitive minute this season, Alejandro Balde is edging toward a Barcelona exit despite Hansi Flick’s measured praise for his attitude.

Barcelona are already preparing for the winter transfer window. According to Sport, FC Barcelona have identified Alejandro Balde as the player who could be sold in January to raise at least €40 million. The 22-year-old left-back has not played a competitive match this season. Liverpool are now monitoring his situation after Manchester United and Inter made enquiries during the summer.

Speaking on Tuesday, Hansi Flick did not hide the defender’s disappointment. “He is frustrated that he is not playing and not getting minutes. He was used to being a key player, and it is normal for him to be disappointed,” the German coach said. Flick nevertheless insisted he was “very happy” with Balde’s attitude. The issue is primarily sporting: João Cancelo can cover the left flank, while youngster Xavi Espart has exceeded expectations and changed the pecking order.

Solid numbers, but limited attacking influence

Balde’s sudden demotion is striking when measured against his 2025-26 campaign. Across all competitions, the Spain international made 42 appearances, including 31 starts, and played 2,795 minutes. He supplied three assists but did not score. In La Liga, he featured 28 times, started 21 matches and logged 1,874 minutes, with two assists.

Those figures show that he was still a regular option, although not a decisive presence in the final third. His pace, ball-carrying ability and forward runs remain his strongest qualities. However, modest attacking output and occasional defensive lapses have allowed his rivals to move ahead of him.

Manchester United pushed throughout the summer

Manchester United tracked Balde closely throughout the summer window and asked about a possible move, as did Inter. Barcelona were only prepared to discuss a permanent transfer worth around €40 million rather than a loan. The prospect of an exit is therefore not new: Foot Africa reported in August that Alejandro Balde was already moving closer to a Barcelona departure.

The defender is under contract until June 2028 and has a €1 billion release clause, leaving the club in a strong negotiating position. Selling an academy graduate would also generate a sizeable accounting gain. From a sporting perspective, however, letting a 22-year-old full-back leave without another opportunity would carry risk. If he remains out of the team, a January transfer will become increasingly difficult to avoid.