Barcelona youngster becomes indispensable for Flick following injury-hit last season

A number of players at FC Barcelona who were not at their best during the last season are absolutely thriving this time around under the management of Hansi Flick.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski are prime examples of it while the likes of Inigo Martinez and Pedri have also taken their games up a notch after enduring a campaign filled with injuries and fitness woes last time out.

Another player who is following the same path this season at Barcelona is young left-back Alejandro Balde.

Undisputed starter for Flick

Indeed, as per SPORT, after seeing his previous season cut short by an injury in January, Balde has recovered strongly and become an indispensable figure in Flick’s Barcelona team this season.

The La Masia left-back is enjoying a strong start to the season, proving he has fully recovered from the torn hamstring he sustained in January in a cup match against Athletic Club which required him to undergo surgery and sidelined for the remainder of the term.

Following successful rehabilitation, the 21-year-old returned during the pre-season USA tour and has since not looked back at all, becoming a key figure for Flick, featuring in 13 of Barcelona’s 14 official matches this season.

Balde shone brightly in El Clasico

The report states that those within Barcelona were particularly pleased with how Balde fared against Real Madrid in the first El Clasico of the season last week.

The La Masia graduate was one of the standout performers in the game, providing attacking threat, while successfully containing both Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vazquez throughout the match.

Balde crowned his impressive display with a precise cross that Robert Lewandowski converted to make it 2-0 in the second half.

“Watching Bellingham chase Balde at the Bernabeu was a delight,” Barcelona sources note.

Balde has become an essential player for Flick due to his attacking contributions and his ability to break lines. Whilst he has historically raised some concerns defensively, he is showing improvement in his concentration and decision-making as well.

In fact, Balde’s strong start to the season has put him back in contention for Spain manager Luis de la Fuente’s plans.