Alejandro Balde talks Ansu, Yamal, Pena, Pedri, Gavi, Flick ahead of Barcelona vs Atalanta | OneFootball

Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde recently opened up about the challenges and triumphs he has faced, including a troubling racist incident during a match against Getafe.

As the Catalan giants prepare for a crucial home game against Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League, Balde shared insights into the team’s current form, individual performances, and his personal journey.

Reflecting on the upcoming match, Balde acknowledged the importance of securing victory despite already qualifying for the next round.

He expressed confidence, boosted by a strong performance against Valencia, emphasising the need to aim for all three points.

“We have a very important match. We are through. But we are playing against a great rival. The match against Valencia gave us confidence. We have to go for the three points,” he began saying.

On Ansu, Lamine and Pena

Balde admits Ansu Fati is going through a tough time. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Balde spoke fondly about his relationship with Ansu Fati, praising his friend’s motivation and determination despite facing challenges. He firmly believes Ansu will return stronger, given his exceptional talent.

“Ansu is one of my best friends, he is in a bit of a difficult situation, but he is motivated, eager to play and improve. I am sure he will return because he has incredible talent. I will always support him.”

He also highlighted the impressive rise of Lamine Yamal, describing him as one of the best young talents globally.

“About Lamine, what can I say, he is being one of the best in the world, I have full confidence in him if he continues like this.”

Turning attention to goalkeeper Inaki Pena, Balde commended his relentless work ethic, noting Pena’s dedication in training. This commitment, according to Balde, has been crucial to his strong performances on the pitch.

“I think he’s doing well. I spend a lot of time with Iñaki. He’s one of the hardest workers on the team, the first to arrive at the gym and the last to leave. I think he’s doing very well.”

Century of goals

Barcelona have scored more than 100 goals already. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Addressing the team’s remarkable scoring record this season, Balde downplayed any focus on breaking historical records.

Instead, he stressed that the primary goal remains winning titles and maintaining consistency throughout the season.

“This year we are scoring a lot of goals and creating chances. We don’t focus on that, we focus on winning games.

“We have to win titles and that’s what we focus on, winning things,” he explained.

Racist encounter

Alejandro Balde encountered a racist incident against Getafe. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The conversation shifted to a distressing moment when Balde encountered racist abuse during the Getafe match.

While acknowledging the complexity of the situation, he refrained from generalising Spanish football based on the actions of a few individuals.

“It was a complicated situation. I received several insults. I don’t know what to say.

“Just because 3 or 4 people insult you doesn’t mean you have to generalise the whole of Spanish football. I think I did the right thing by informing people.

Proud of his identity, Balde stood firm in his belief that raising awareness was the right thing to do.

“I don’t care if they call me black. I’m black and I’m proud of it. I’m surprised why Getafe has a black captain.”

Increased influence

Alejandro Balde praised Pedri and Gavi. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Discussing his role in the squad, Balde expressed satisfaction with his growth and playing time. He acknowledged the difficulties of returning to form after an injury but credited his physical and mental improvement.

“My first season was indeed very good, the second was more so because of the injury. It’s not easy to come back from an injury and play at a high level from day one.”

Despite his young age, he feels a sense of leadership within the team, especially alongside players like Pedri and Gavi.

“Not all players are like Pedri or Gavi who are born with innate talent. I feel good physically and mentally. We are in a process of improving and learning.”

“We understand each other very well, we are very young. At 21, I seem like a veteran. Pedri is 22. We share hobbies, jokes and have a good time. That is the good thing about this team.”

Barcelona’s chances in UCL

On Barcelona’s prospects in the Champions League, Balde exuded optimism, noting the team’s ability to compete against Europe’s best. He highlighted their Super Cup victory and their ambition to secure more titles this season.

“We have the team to do it, yes. We already won the Super Cup, in the League Madrid is a little ahead but in the Champions League we are doing very well, we have always won against the biggest teams. It is a reality, we can do it.

“Our priority is not any other. We are in the running in all competitions. We have already won a title and we must continue fighting to win all the titles.”

Hansi Flick’s methods

Balde is happy to work with Hansi Flick. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Finally, Balde shared his thoughts on Hansi Flick’s coaching methods. He appreciated Flick’s focus on detailed corrections during training, which has been instrumental in the team’s development and progress.

“Each coach brings his own philosophy. Last year we were also doing well. We are a little better, but we also have to value what we did.

“During training, Flick stops to correct actions and shows the video. He has been doing this all season,” he concluded.

Source: AS