Balde’s future is a question mark ahead of the January window

Balde is one of the players to watch as the January transfer window approaches. If some of those used less often by Hansi Flick were to seek a move when the market reopens, his situation could come under scrutiny. The full-back had options to leave last summer, but ultimately chose to stay and compete for a place in the starting eleven. Manchester United had shown strong interest, but Balde did not want to leave Spotify Camp Nou at the time.

His playing time is one reason for the questions. Of the eight matches Barça have played so far, Flick left him out for the opening round and gave him only 12 minutes against Racing de Santander at home, with the match already decided. Balde has also been seen looking serious on the bench.

At the start of the season, Flick sent him a message that the player took as a challenge. But Balde has slipped down the pecking order: Xavi Espart, a right-back, moved ahead of him at left-back, alongside Joao Cancelo. Cancelo joined the club last summer after a six-month loan the previous season and his departure from Al-Hilal.

If Balde decides to leave in January, Barça could consider signing a centre-back. That would also address a request Flick made last summer, with Christensen’s injury another factor in the picture.