League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Transactions

Barcelona excludes Alejandro Balde from squad against Elche CF

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 9:30 AM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Barcelona excludes Alejandro Balde from squad against Elche CF

Summary

Barcelona has announced its squad for the 2026-27 La Liga opener against Elche CF, with notable exclusion of defender Alejandro Balde. Balde, who has faced scrutiny over his training performance under manager Hansi Flick, is speculated to be on the verge of a transfer amid interest from Manchester United. Despite starting in two pre-season matches, his absence marks a significant moment in his career as he now faces competition for minutes. The squad still includes other defenders like Joao Cancelo, Jules Kounde, and Jordi Pesquer, raising questions about who will fill the left-back role against Elche.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Barcelona released its first squad for the La Liga season on August 23, 2026.
•Alejandro Balde was excluded from the matchday squad against Elche CF.
•Hansi Flick's recent comments raised concerns about Balde's performance.
•Balde is reportedly being monitored by Manchester United for a possible transfer.
•Other defensive options for Barcelona include Cancelo, Kounde, and Pesquer.

Latest Updates

9:30 AMYahoo Sports — Confirmed: Barcelona squad list to face Elche CF as star defender misses out

What they're saying

"
Barcelona have named their first squad for the 2026-27 La Liga season, and there has been one major omission.Since last evening, there has been a lot of chatter around Alejandro Balde’s future, with...
— Yahoo Sports

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