Alejandro Balde remains out of Barcelona lineup under Hansi Flick

Alejandro Balde has yet to feature in a competitive match for Barcelona this season under manager Hansi Flick. Despite deciding to remain at the club this summer, the academy graduate has been sidelined for all five matches played so far. Flick has opted for alternative options at left-back, including academy player Xavi Espart and Joao Cancelo, who started the recent Champions League match against Feyenoord. The manager has publicly demanded improvements in both development and commitment from the defender before returning him to the rotation. With competition increasing for his position, Balde faces a difficult path back into the starting lineup. He may be forced to evaluate his future at the club during the January transfer window if his playing status does not change in the coming months.

• 8:20 AMYahoo Sports — Alejandro Balde’s Barcelona situation takes difficult turn under Hansi Flick; could reconsider future in January