Ballot must improve to stay at Barcelona, according to Flick

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made it clear that Alejandro Balde must improve to retain his place in the squad. The 22-year-old defender, who was left out of the 5-0 La Liga win over Elche on Sunday, has nevertheless expressed his desire to stay at the club. Several clubs, including Manchester United, have enquired about his profile this summer, but the player is keen to fight for his spot at Spotify Camp Nou.

An uncertain situation for Balde at Barcelona

Flick confirmed that Balde remains part of the team but that his inclusion will depend on decisions made the day before Thursday’s match against Athletic Club. “He is part of the team, so whether he plays or not, we will decide tomorrow,” he said. The German coach also mentioned a discussion with the player: “What I can say is that I have spoken to him. For me, the important thing is that he is 100% with us and 100% in the situation.” Balde, a club graduate who has made 168 appearances since his debut in 2021, saw his playing time decrease late last season in favor of João Cancelo. During pre-season, he was also overtaken by Jordi Pesquer and Jordi Pesquer, a midfielder who started at left-back against Elche in the first La Liga match. Flick highlighted the young player’s potential while stressing the need for progress: “He is only 22, which is very young for a player, and he has a lot of potential. I saw in his first season what kind of fantastic player he could be. Now is the time to take another step forward.”

Cancelo’s arrival and Flick’s options

The club signed João Cancelo for €60 million this summer, and the Portuguese defender made his training debut this week. Flick confirmed he plans to give him game time: “The plan is for him to play a few minutes.” The coach also mentioned the possibility of pairing Cancelo with Pedri in midfield. “We also play with Marc Bernal in that position, but of course Rodri has more experience—he’s a leader,” he added. “Together with Pedri, they have that experience to control the game, the ball, the opponent. That’s what we need. Everyone knows Rodri is one of the best, and with Pedri, we’ll enjoy seeing them play together for Barcelona.” Flick also spoke about Rodri’s versatility, capable of playing in different positions, while emphasizing his key role in the team. The match against Athletic Club looks set to be an important test for the German coach’s tactical choices, as Balde’s position remains under threat. With only two matches played in La Liga this season, Balde will need to show determination to regain a starting position. His direct rival, Cancelo, has already demonstrated his qualities in his previous experiences in the Premier League and La Liga. Flick, who took charge of the team in 2024, is banking on a solid collective and experienced players to aim for the top spots. The Catalan club, in the midst of a rebuild after a difficult season, is counting on profiles like Rodri and Pedri to restore its reputation. Balde’s ability to assert himself against this competition will be crucial for his future at Barcelona. Meanwhile, rumors about a potential move to Manchester United persist, but the player has clearly expressed his desire to stay. To follow the situation’s evolution, check out Flick’s latest statements on recruitment. The next match against Athletic Club will therefore be crucial for Balde, who will need to seize his chance if Cancelo were to be absent or struggling. Flick, for his part, will have to manage a defense in transition with high ambitions for this season.