Alejandro Balde is growing frustrated with how Hansi Flick has handled his situation at Barcelona, with the defender struggling to understand what he must do to regain his place in the starting XI.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the left-back is particularly unhappy about being used outside his natural position during training, while senior members of the dressing room have also questioned the manager’s treatment of the academy graduate.
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Understandably, the situation has further damaged Balde’s relationship with the club and increased his openness to a January departure.
One of Balde’s biggest concerns is the lack of direct communication with Flick.
The defender’s camp feels the manager has not clearly explained his role or future at Barcelona, with much of the messaging instead coming through press conferences.
As such, Balde would have preferred an honest conversation about his position, particularly because Flick previously advised Hector Fort and Marc Casado to leave the club before the season.
Balde is not happy with Flick’s treatment. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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The Spain international believes he deserved similar clarity rather than being left uncertain about his prospects.
His frustration has also reached the dressing room, with a senior Barcelona player – with direct access to Flick – questioning why Balde was not training regularly in his natural left-back position.
The defender himself struggles to understand how he can show his qualities when he is not being given the opportunity to work in his preferred role in the first place.
Flick’s reservations are understood to centre on Balde’s concentration and defensive decision-making.
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The coaching staff believes he sometimes struggles to judge when to step forward and press opponents.
Balde is open to leaving Barcelona in January. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The German manager has also publicly acknowledged that the defender currently lacks confidence and conviction in his performances, and these concerns have contributed to Balde losing his regular starting position, despite Barcelona dealing with several defensive absences.
Balde’s uncertain position has opened the possibility of a January departure, with both Manchester clubs exploring his availability last summer.
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In fact, as of today, Manchester United remain among the interested sides.
Barcelona, however, would prefer a permanent transfer rather than a loan, as the club needs additional funds to strengthen its defence during the winter transfer window.
The situation is reaching a boiling point where Balde’s frustration is also understandable because Flick, despite all the injuries, has not relied on the homegrown star.
