Alejandro Balde’s influence in Barcelona has increased in Barcelona this season, as was always anticipated given the arrival of Hansi Flick.
The 20-year-old has started three of the team’s four league games so far and has overseen one clean sheet, averaging over four defensive actions per game.
Beyond the statistics, however, his primary influence has been in the final third where he pushes up high on the left flank for Flick’s side to add up numbers in the buildup.
Balde talks about Yamal
Speaking in a recent interview, the Barcelona defender dug deeper into the rise of his young teammate Lamine Yamal and what made the teenager so special.
“Lamine Yamal’s talent does not surprise me. I follow football a lot, and I told my brother two years ago that Lamine would soon break into the first team,” he began, admitting that he knew well of Yamal’s talent.
Balde then added a note on how the 17-year-old was mature beyond his years with every aspect of his game.
“I’m four years older than Lamine Yamal and I’m only 20. He’s very young, but he plays like a veteran. To do the things that he does at that age, I think it’s incredible.”
“I knew he would break into the first team when he was 16 years old,” he concluded.
The teenager’s start to the new season has been nothing short of explosive as he has racked up a goal and four assists in as many starts for Barcelona.
Further, he averages 2.8 shots and as many key passes per game and has created a stunning five big chances so far.
Source: SPORT
