Barcelona will not sign a left-back to replace Balde, to keep faith in available options

The situation in Barcelona can best be described as turbulent. The recent rut the team has faced has led to serious repercussions with Xavi even announcing his decision to leave the club in June.

A parallel problem, however, is the deteriorating sporting level of the team on the field. If the poor displays were not enough, Alejandro Balde has been ruled out until the end of the season with injury, thus leaving the manager without his first-choice left-back.

No new signing

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona will not sign a new full-back in the ongoing winter transfer window to replace the injured Spaniard.

The economic reason is indeed a factor, but the board also believe that recruitment is unnecessary.

Hector Fort’s performances at left-back have convinced the manager for the youngster has been solid at the back in both of his appearances so far.

Moreover, Marcos Alonso will be back in action in around a month to reinforce the position.

Alonso will be back soon. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

As a third and reliable option, the manager can also count on Joao Cancelo to cover at left-back if need be, for the Portuguese star has shown to be a lethal weapon down the left.

The surgical route

Balde was faced with two options after sustaining a hamstring injury earlier this week – to opt for conservative treatment or go down the surgical route.

After multiple inputs and advice from his entourage and the management, it was decided that his complete recovery be prioritised. He will thus go under the knife and will face a longer time on the sidelines as a result.

The youngster will, thus, only be available for selection next season. His stint under Xavi, for all practical purposes, has come to an end.