Alejandro Balde was supposed to be Jordi Alba’s heir, then he was supposed to be shipped out. Neither has happened, or at least, not yet.
Still just 23, Balde took the starting job from Alba, FC Barcelona’s legendary left-back, when the veteran was nearing retirement in 2022. It was widely assumed Balde would become the team’s starter for the long run. Instead, he lost his spot to a loan player, João Cancelo.
Barça scoured the market for another left-back after Flick reportedly deemed Balde surplus
to requirements. With Xavi Espart, Eric Garcia, and Jules Koundé, in addition to Cancelo, Barcelona had four players in the full-back positions, and Balde was on the outside looking in.
It so happens that three of those players are now injured. Garcia and Koundé were already out when Barcelona played Real Madrid, and then Espart went down after a stamp from Aurélien Tchouaméni. Balde had to go in on an emergency basis.
Barcelona lost, but Balde held his own. It wasn’t the most brilliant performance, but it was acceptable given the circumstances. Now, Balde has a test that’s arguably more fair to take. He is looking likely to start against Deportivo Alavés in La Liga on October 31.
Balde at some point reportedly turned down Manchester United to fight for a place at his hometown club. This may be one of his last stands to prove his case.
Is this Balde’s last chance to prove himself at Barca? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
