Transfer imminent?! Hansi Flick explains Alejandro Balde shock omission amid left-back's decision to leave as Barcelona crush Elche 5-0 in La Liga opener
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick omitted defender Alejandro Balde from the squad for the La Liga opener due to ongoing transfer speculation. Balde has been linked to clubs including Manchester United and Aston Villa.
Why it matters
The situation highlights the impact of transfer market rumors on team management and player focus at the start of a competitive season.
Balde was left out of Barcelona 's squad for their La Liga opener against Elche on Sunday, with Flick admitting the defender was not fully focused amid mounting transfer speculation.
The omission raised eyebrows given Balde's importance to Barcelona, but Flick suggested the decision was made with the player's state of mind in mind. The left-back has been linked with Manchester United , Aston Villa , and Benfica after reportedly informing the club of his desire to leave . Barca ultimately made a perfect start to their title defence, thrashing Elche 5-0.
Barcelona boss tells Balde to 'clear your mind'
Flick revealed that he had spoken to Balde on the morning of the match and felt the Spain international needed to resolve his situation before returning to the team.
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