Balde's Show Against Benfica: A New King in the Left-Back Position

The impact of Hansi Flick is not only reflected in the collective performance of FC Barcelona, but also in the individual level of its players. Figures like Raphinha, Pedri González and Robert Lewandowski have rediscovered their best versions under the German's orders, and although his name may go unnoticed, Alejandro Balde is another of the stars who has also flourished under the coach's guidance.

After an irregular start to the season, which even sparked rumors about signing an elite left-back to strengthen the position, the academy player has been on the rise and has become the master of the left flank of the defense. The best example is his brutal performance last Tuesday against Benfica, which establishes him as one of the best in the world, if not the best, in his position.

And it is that in addition to the power and speed that have characterized him since his emergence in the first team, the blaugrana '3' has added more judgment to his actions and has substantially improved his decision-making with the ball at his feet. This was demonstrated in the play of the 3-1 against the Lisbon team, when the defender recovered the ball in his own area and made a legendary run to the other end of the field to assist Raphinha at the right moment and left him one-on-one with the goalkeeper.

Balde, the Owner of Barça's Left Wing

Balde's influence against the 'Eagles' was immense. The left-back was the third player with the most interventions (94), only surpassed by Iñigo Martínez (108) and Pedri (106), and was one of the players with the highest passing accuracy (91.8%). In addition, he completed the most dribbles (5), the same as Lamine Yamal, and was the third player with the most recoveries (6), after González and Olmo, with 10 each.

In this way, Alejandro makes it clear that he has returned to his best form after a 2023-2024 season in which his performance declined considerably. The confidence that Hansi Flick has placed in the left-back has been key for him to become the player who dominates the entire left wing with his power and quality, and today it is clear that there is no one better than him in his position.