Balde omission adds to Barcelona transfer speculation

Alejandro Balde was left out of Barcelona’s matchday squad for the opening La Liga fixture against Elche, with Hansi Flick saying the full-back needed time away from the match to regain clarity.

Balde was not included on the bench for the match at the Estadio Martínez Valero, despite Flick naming a strong squad that included new arrivals Karim Adeyemi, Anthony Gordon and João Cancelo.

The decision came amid mounting media speculation that Balde could leave Camp Nou. Asked before kick-off why the defender had been omitted, Flick said he had spoken directly with the player earlier in the day.

“I spoke with Alejandro Balde today and said to him that I think you’re not here 109%, so it’s best that you stay at home and clear your mind. We will talk again tomorrow,” Flick said.

Flick’s explanation leaves Balde’s immediate position at Barcelona under scrutiny, with further discussions expected after the season opener.