Barcelona homegrown star ‘not ruling out’ summer departure after Flick’s warning – report

Alejandro Balde had made his position clear for much of the summer: he wanted to stay at Barcelona and fight for his place.

That stance, however, has now changed.

According to El Larguero, the defender is reconsidering his future after being left out of Barcelona’s opening La Liga match against Elche, with the public explanation from Hansi Flick creating fresh uncertainty around his position at the club.

For now, Manchester United have continued to follow Balde’s situation, but until the Elche game, the Barcelona academy graduate had shown little interest in leaving. 

The latest developments, however, have forced him to look at things differently.

As per the outlet, Flick’s decision and his comments after the Elche game did not sit well with the player, particularly because they came in public. 

It is crucial to remember that Balde was not looking for a way out.

Interest from Manchester United had been there, but the Spanish international wanted to remain at Barcelona and prove himself under Flick. 

Alejandro Balde is now open to leaving Barcelona. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

He was prepared to compete for his place rather than seek an easier route elsewhere, which made his absence from the squad against Elche particularly significant.

After the match, which ended 5-0 in Blaugrana’s favour, Flick explained his decision by saying,

“I have a feeling – and I think it’s best for him – that he should think things through, reflect, get his thoughts in order, and then we’ll talk. And we both agreed on that.”

The comments raised questions, but for Balde, the surprise was not only the decision to leave him out. 

It was also the fact that his situation was addressed publicly by the Barcelona manager.

Journalist Santi Ovalle explained the player’s reaction.

“He did not expect this public message from Flick dropping him from the squad.

Manchester United remain interested in Balde. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)

“He didn’t want to leave, but now, given the situation, he’s not ruling it out…”

Manchester United are among the clubs monitoring the situation closely.

The Premier League side have shown interest in Balde and would prefer a deal that initially brings him to England on loan, with an option to make the move permanent. 

Barcelona, however, have a different preference.

The Catalan club would rather complete a permanent sale and are looking for a fee between €30 million and €40 million for the academy product. 

Balde is at a stage where he needs clarity about his role, while Barcelona must decide whether they still see him as part of their long-term plans. 

The defender went into the summer determined to stay at Barcelona, but after the events following the Elche match, his future looks far less certain.