Alejandro Baldé has fallen out of favor at Barcelona after starting last season as a regular starter. The 22-year-old left-back has yet to play a single competitive minute this season, despite choosing to remain at the club during the summer.
His situation became more complicated after Barcelona permanently brought back Joao Cancelo, while young defender Xavi Espart has taken advantage of his opportunities.
Espart has started all four of Barcelona’s La Liga matches this season and has provided two assists. Hansi Flick has also praised the 19-year-old’s confidence and ability on the ball, comparing him to Philipp Lahm. Baldé now finds himself behind both Espart and Cancelo in the pecking order, making his return to the starting XI increasingly difficult.
The situation adds to a frustrating period for Baldé, who also missed Spain’s World Cup triumph after failing to make Luis de la Fuente’s squad. Manchester United showed interest in signing him before the transfer window closed, but the defender decided to stay in Catalonia. According to AS, Baldé could reconsider his future in January if he fails to secure regular playing time by then.
