“There is no doubt for me" - Barcelona star's agent comments on future amid exit rumors
Barcelona full-back Alejandro Balde's agent Jorge Mendes has commented on the 21-year-old's future at Camp Nou. The La Roja left-back graduated from the club's academy, breaking into the first team back in 2021. He has since become an integral part of the squad under former manager Xavi Hernandez and new manager Hansi Flick.
This season, he has remained important, playing over 1500 minutes in all competitions, with 22 appearances and four assists. There were reports in the summer of 2024 that the Blaugrana were prepared to let him leave, with Chelsea and Manchester United being alerted (via Football Transfers). While he stayed at Camp Nou, the rumors have persisted.
His agent Jorge Mendes has now opened up about the situation, admitting that offers had come in from other European giants, but Barcelona rejected them. The superagent said to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo (via Fabrizio Romano on X):
"Barça rejected offers from big teams for Balde and so he renewed. There is no doubt for me, he will be the best left back in the world."
The 21-year-old's contract with Barca will run until the summer of 2028, which will give the Catalan giants the advantage in any negotiation with other clubs.
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick admits no worries after Atletico loss
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has admitted that he has no worries despite the Blaugrana's loss to Atletico Madrid. The two sides faced off at the Lluis Companys on December 21, with the Blaugrana losing 2-1.
Flick was not on the touchline to manage the team during the match, as he served out his second of a two-match suspension after picking up a red card against Real Betis. However, he spoke to the press afterwards, revealing his delight in how the team played. The German manager said (via Barca Universal):
“We played a great game. I’m very proud of my players but very disappointed with the result. Atletico are a very experienced team and have taken advantage of their chance.
"It was a very frustrating match. Pedri played incredibly, and so did Gavi. That’s how we want to play. We will be back with a vengeance after Christmas.”
Flick also spoke about 2025, adding:
“The break will be good for us. We have to learn and play smarter. The quality in the game, I have nothing to say. Everyone has seen it. The one who scores the most goals wins. Dropping ten points at home is not normal and we will have to work on this.”
After the Christmas break in Spain, Barcelona will return to the pitch when they face Barbastro in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 at the Estadio Municipal on January 4.
