Flick backs Balde to stay ready as Barcelona rivals keep him out

Flick says Balde is responding professionally to limited minutes

Hansi Flick has acknowledged that Alejandro Balde is enduring a difficult spell at Barcelona, with the full-back struggling to secure playing time amid competition from João Cancelo and Xavi Espart.

Asked about Balde at a Friday press conference, the Barcelona coach praised the defender’s work in training while making clear that the options ahead of him have been performing well.

“It’s not easy for him right now, but he’s training, which is the most important thing he needs to do, and he’s training very well,” Flick said. “In that position, we have [Xavi] Espart and João [Cancelo], two top players who are playing at a very high level.”

Flick added that Balde has continued to behave professionally despite the lack of opportunities. “It’s certainly not perfect for Balde, but he does his job professionally,” he said, adding that the defender must be ready to step in when required.

January move reported as one possible outcome

Balde was previously linked with a departure, with Manchester United reportedly among the interested clubs, but he stayed at Barcelona to compete for his place. The source report says the defender is now considering a January exit after finding minutes hard to come by in the opening months of the season.

Barcelona’s immediate selection picture has been shaped by Cancelo’s form and Espart’s rapid rise. Flick’s public comments do not confirm any decision about Balde’s future; they underline the competition he faces and the coach’s expectation that he remain prepared for an opportunity.