Barcelona suffered a crushing defeat against Atlético Madrid, exposing serious defensive vulnerabilities and a clear lack of attacking ideas, especially in the absence of Pedri and Raphinha.
Balde the First to Be Affected
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Alejandro Balde had a disappointing game, underperforming and proving to be the most frustrating player for German coach Hansi Flick throughout the 90 minutes. Flick decided to drop Balde from the starting lineup for the next match, at least until he corrects his mistakes and proves his worth.
Within Barcelona, there is a growing conviction that something has changed this season. The Spanish player, known for his composure and defensive strength, hasn’t performed as usual, both physically and mentally, which has directly impacted the team’s balance at crucial moments.
A Shared Diagnosis from Flick and Raphinha
Remarkably, Hansi Flick and Raphinha, despite their different roles within the team, have reached the same conclusion: keeping Balde might not be the best solution. Both parties believe that selling him in the summer transfer window could benefit all sides, the club and the player alike.
No one doubts Balde’s quality; he is considered one of the best defenders in the world when at his peak. However, this level has eluded him this season, putting him under scrutiny in the dressing room.
Growing Discontent
Sources close to the team indicate that several Barcelona players have expressed their dissatisfaction with Balde’s performances this season. The prevailing impression is that he has become less integrated and mentally distant from the atmosphere of big matches, showing a clear decline compared to last season.
Some feel that the player approaches matches with a different rhythm and that his repeated mistakes have generated tension instead of confidence, at a time when Barcelona needs stability and discipline to rebuild its sporting project.
A Difficult Decision Looms
Barcelona realizes that the decision will not be easy, but the general sentiment within the club leans toward selling Balde this summer as the most appropriate step within a project that only recognizes complete readiness, both technically and mentally.
In this team, it is not enough to be one of the best in the world… you have to prove it every day.
