Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has provided an explanation for his decision to drop first-choice left-back Alejandro Balde from his starting XI to face Rayo Vallecano.
Barca, of course, are currently locked in La Liga action.
After rattling off back-to-back wins to open the campaign, the Blaugrana have made the trip to Vallecas, hoping to keep alive their perfect start at the expense of Rayo Vallecano.
In efforts towards as much, however, the aforementioned Balde will be forced to watch on from the sideline, at least from the off.
The Spanish international was afforded starts in each of Barcelona’s first two fixtures of the season, shining from his role on the left of defence against both Valencia and Athletic Club.
With Gerard Martín having been preferred to Balde this evening, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of his team selection was put to Hansi Flick, pre kick-off.
And the German tactician went on to explain that:
“Balde is just back from a serious injury so we have to take care of him. He had two very good games. Gerard Martín had a great preseason so that’s why he’s playing today.”
Conor Laird | GSFN
