Barcelona hopes to persuade Balde to change his mind in January

Barcelona hopes to persuade Balde to reconsider his position by January. The defender, who has made 169 appearances in blaugrana colours and is contracted until June 2028, has not abandoned his decision to stay despite a difficult start to the season.

During the most recent summer transfer window, the Catalan club and Hansi Flick opened the door to a departure, convinced Balde would not have a major role. He chose to remain at Spotify Camp Nou. He still believes he can contribute more and earn additional playing time, while the coach is not giving him the role he wants. Barcelona thinks Balde could change his mind in January, though it considers that outcome difficult.

Balde has featured only once at the start of this season, in the LaLiga meeting with Racing at Spotify Camp Nou. Flick, who expects more from the 22-year-old left-back, summed up his concern: «Something is going on with Balde, I can see it.»

Barcelona understands that Balde wants to see out the season with the club, believing he can turn his situation around and gain more minutes. Meanwhile, the club needs to make a sale if it is to strengthen in January. A Balde departure would not be considered traumatic internally, and Barcelona would even welcome an exit without bringing in a replacement, as it would reduce the squad’s wage bill.