Alejandro Balde’s Barcelona situation takes difficult turn under Hansi Flick; could reconsider future in January

Alejandro Balde’s Barcelona situation takes difficult turn under Hansi Flick; could reconsider future in January Alejandro Balde chose to stay at Barcelona this summer and fight for his place, but the opening weeks of the season have made that decision look increasingly difficult. The left-back had opportunities to leave during the transfer window , yet ultimately decided he could change Hansi Flick’s opinion and reclaim a role in the team.  Notably, the Barcelona manager had made his expectations clear during pre-season, demanding more from Balde in both his footballing development and his commitment. So far, Flick has stuck to his word. Barcelona have already played five competitive matches this season and Balde has not featured in any of them . For an academy graduate who once looked established on the left side of the defence, it is a difficult start. Flick has chosen his alternative Flick has not yet handed Balde a place simply because of his previous standing at the club. Balde is yet to play a single minute this season. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images) The German coach has always spoken highly of the version of Balde he saw during his first season in charge, but he wants to see that level again before putting him back into the rotation. At present, Xavi Espart has taken advantage of the situation. The academy player has impressed with his performances, personality, work rate and dedication, moving ahead of Balde in the pecking order. Furthermore, Joao Cancelo started at left-back in Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Feyenoord .  Flick wanted the Portuguese international to remain at the club, and he is currently the manager’s preferred alternative in the position. That leaves Balde with a much tougher route back into the team than he might have anticipated in the summer. Balde’s Barcelona future could be reassessed Balde might have to reassess his future in January. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images) Balde still has plenty of time to change the situation . The season is long, and injuries, form and fixture congestion can alter a manager’s plans. But the immediate message from Flick is difficult to ignore. Balde will need to improve considerably if he wants to force his way back into contention. In the next few months, if Balde manages to respond, his decision to remain at Barcelona could still prove the right one.  However, if nothing changes, the possibility of reconsidering his future in January may become increasingly difficult to ignore. For now, the competition is clear: Espart has taken his chance, Cancelo is trusted by Flick, and Balde has ground to make up.