Raphinha had a notable moment during the match against Leganés, unleashing a powerful left-footed shot that was initially saved by goalkeeper Dmitrovic. The ball then crashed against the crossbar, preserving Leganés’ lead.
In a backdrop of considerable changes at FC Barcelona, Alejandro Balde marked a significant milestone by playing his 100th match for the first team against Leganés. This achievement would have seemed unlikely to many when he made his debut on September 14, 2021, under coach Ronald Koeman in a tough game where Barcelona faced a heavy defeat against Bayern Munich.
At just under 18 years old, Balde replaced veteran Jordi Alba in the second half and went on to play six more official matches that season. His development continued under Sergi Barjuán in the reserve team, and he was promoted by Xavi Hernández the following season. During that year, he not only became a starting player but also contributed significantly to the team’s successes, securing the league title and the Supercopa, while also making his debut for the Spanish national team during the World Cup in Qatar.
With the summer departure of Jordi Alba in 2023, Balde, now 20, solidified his place in the starting lineup, demonstrating his capabilities despite the signing of Marcos Alonso. Although there’s acknowledgment within the club of the need for further reinforcement in the left-back position, Balde’s position seems secure at this stage.
Despite a setback from a tendon injury in January that kept him sidelined until the end of the last season, Balde’s progress in recovery and the emergence of Gerard Martín as a reliable backup have contributed to his successful entry into the 100-game club. Of these, 72 appearances came in LaLiga, 17 in the UEFA Champions League, 6 in the Copa del Rey, 3 in the Supercopa de España, and 2 in the UEFA Europa League.
Balde’s rise at Barcelona provides a hopeful narrative of resilience and growth amid the challenges faced, highlighting the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent. As he continues on this promising trajectory, fans have much to look forward to regarding his future contributions on the pitch.