Alejandro Balde: Man United’s hopes of landing Barcelona star skyrocket | OneFootball

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Manchester United’s former transfer target Alejandro Balde is yet to play a minute for Barcelona this season after the Red Devils attempted to sign him on loan during the summer window.

The Manchester Evening News reports that Hansi Flick has left the 22-year-old on the bench in every competition, with Joao Cancelo preferred at left-back in Barcelona’s latest Champions League fixture.

United’s search for left-back cover

United’s summer approach for Balde came amid concerns about Michael Carrick’s options on the left side of his defence.

Luke Shaw is identified as the only senior specialist left-back currently at Carrick’s disposal. If the England international is unavailable, Patrick Dorgu is the most natural replacement, but Carrick has mostly deployed him as a winger amid concerns over his defensive stability.

TPP covered United’s decision over a potential January move for a new left-back earlier this week, underlining that the position remains an active area of interest.

Shaw subsequently missed training before United’s Champions League meeting with Sabah. Carrick indicated that the defender had been given an additional recovery day, rather than suffering an ongoing problem.

Flick continues to overlook Balde

Barcelona began their Champions League campaign with a 5-1 victory over Feyenoord, but Balde remained an unused substitute throughout the match.

Flick instead selected former Manchester City defender Cancelo at left-back.

The Spain defender has been named among Barcelona’s substitutes for every game in all competitions this season. Flick has not introduced him at any stage.

The Barcelona head coach has also made clear that he expects greater commitment from Balde, who must now force his way back into the starting side.

Balde’s difficult start to the campaign

Balde’s current situation developed before the transfer window closed. Flick omitted him from the matchday squad for Barcelona’s opening La Liga victory over Elche after speaking directly with the player.

Flick said: “No, I’m not asking him to leave.”

The German explained: “This morning I felt there was something wrong. I spoke to him and said: ‘At this moment, I have this feeling, and I think it’s best for you to clear your mind, sort out your thoughts, and then we’ll talk again tomorrow.'”

Flick added that Balde agreed with the decision because he had several matters occupying his thoughts. The left-back was subsequently reintegrated into the squad, although his return to the bench has not yet led to competitive minutes.

At 22, Balde still has time to change his standing under Flick. However, the repeated use of alternative options at left-back shows that he faces a significant battle for selection.

United’s summer attempt did not produce a deal, but Balde’s continued absence should keep his situation relevant while Carrick’s squad remains short of natural cover for Shaw.

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