Alejandro Balde has been in the news lately due to an unfortunate reason. The Barcelona defender was the subject of racist chants during the game against Getafe this past weekend.
Balde has since received immense support from the club and his teammates, while FIFA president Gianni Infantino has also condemned the racial abuse that happened in the Getafe stadium.
Balde: A renewed beacon for Barcelona
Notwithstanding the unfortunate event that transpired over the weekend, Balde has been enjoying a great season in Catalonia.
Once sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the youngster has returned with a vengeance and has become a key operator in the Barcelona defender under the leadership of Hansi Flick.
As reported by Diario SPORT, this is all thanks to some meticulous planning by the Barcelona board. The decision to wait until the end of the season for his return was strategic, focusing on strengthening his right leg, vital for a player known for his explosive pace.
This approach has paid dividends as Balde now showcases performances that have fans and critics alike singing his praises.
What makes Balde tick under Flick?
Even though it was Xavi Hernandez who was the key behind Balde’s breakthrough at Barcelona, the former coach, in many ways, failed to properly utilise the qualities of the left-back.
The previous tactical setup didn’t fully exploit his speed and transition play, often leaving him running “on half throttle.”
However, Flick’s arrival has changed the narrative. Recognizing Balde’s potential, the coaching staff has tailored a training regimen that pushes him to his physical limits, treating him as the ‘beast’.
This season, the focus has been on leveraging Balde’s unique genetic gifts. The training sessions are designed to not just recover but to enhance his natural abilities.
