Balde finally plays after waiting five full league rounds for his first minutes

Alejandro Balde has finally made his first appearance of the 2026/27 season. Hansi Flick introduced the left-back in the 78th minute of Barcelona’s 7-2 win over Racing, ending a spell in which five La Liga rounds had passed without him playing a single minute.

A SEASON DEBUT IN THE SIXTH ROUND

Balde replaced João Cancelo with Barcelona already leading 5-2. He was given a little over ten minutes of regulation time after the result had effectively been settled. It was a first step rather than evidence of a major change in Flick’s defensive hierarchy.

Before the Racing match, the Spaniard had not featured at all this season. He sat out the opening five La Liga rounds and was also unused in Barcelona’s earlier Champions League fixture.

CAMP NOU BACKS BALDE

The home crowd responded warmly to his introduction, chanting Balde’s name as he acknowledged the support with applause. After weeks of transfer speculation and frustration on the bench, the reception showed that the supporters had not forgotten a player who was previously a regular starter.

Flick had addressed the situation only a day earlier. The coach admitted it was not ideal for Balde and pointed to intense competition at full-back, particularly the unexpected emergence of Xavi Espart. He also insisted he remained pleased with the player’s work.

HIS PLACE IS FAR FROM SECURE

One late cameo does not settle the issue. Espart has taken advantage of his opportunities, while Cancelo scored against Racing and produced an influential display. Flick has several options on both sides of the defence, leaving Balde with plenty still to prove.

Barcelona eventually found room for him once the match was under control. The important development is that his season has finally begun. Whether the appearance leads to a genuine role will depend on what happens after those first few minutes.