Deco expects Alejandro Balde to compete for his spot at Barcelona

Barcelona sporting director Deco has addressed the current status of defender Alejandro Balde amid ongoing speculation regarding his future at the club. Although linked with a potential exit this summer, Balde remains at Camp Nou and is under contract. The 22-year-old has yet to log any minutes this season under head coach Hansi Flick, who has opted to utilize Xavi Espart at left-back. Deco stated that Balde must fight for his place in the lineup and noted that the player never requested to leave the team. While Flick excluded Balde from the matchday squad against Elche recently, the defender has since returned to the active roster. Selection decisions remain under the purview of the coaching staff rather than the sporting director's office.

• 1:00 PMYahoo Sports — Deco gives his verdict on Alejandro Balde’s situation at Barcelona