Hansi Flick clearly explained the situation surrounding the players who could leave the club, particularly Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde. The Barcelona manager did not rule out the departure of either player, both of whom the club has known for months could attract interest from other teams. All possibilities remain open as the transfer window enters its final days.
Asked about the players currently training separately from the rest of the squad, such as Marc Casadó and Héctor Fort, Flick was also questioned about Koundé and Balde. He responded by addressing the situation collectively.
“It’s a club situation. We’re making a lot of changes, and we have to wait until the end of the transfer window. It’s normal when you decide that you want new players: you think about how to make the team stronger.”
Flick also confirmed that the players are already aware of his intentions, as there have been discussions with them.
“For now, this is our situation. We were clear with these players, and now we have to wait until the end,” he added.
While Flick tested Koundé at centre-back during the Gamper Trophy and Eric García has recently taken his starting spot at right-back, Manchester United’s interest in Alejandro Balde has also emerged. The academy graduate met with Jorge Mendes yesterday, and MD has already reported that Balde’s priority is to remain at Spotify Camp Nou.
Flick went into greater detail about Balde when asked whether he is counting on him and how he has looked during the opening weeks of the season.
“It’s a difficult question. Balde has enormous quality, and for me, what I said earlier is important: you have to have the conviction to fight for your place. I want to see that from every player,” he said, shortly after Barcelona officially confirmed the return of João Cancelo.
The manager also spoke about commitment.
“Every day, I look at what they do, what they show in order to play, whether they are ready and good enough, and whether they are performing at their highest level. That is very important for the team and for the club. In the end, we are only successful when we play as a team. I want everyone to be 100% committed,” Flick concluded.