Hansi Flick Barcelona has been dealt a significant blow following Alejandro Balde’s injury that will keep him out for at least three weeks.
The 20-year-old left-back will miss the all-important Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid, among other pivotal games, leaving manager Hansi Flick to seek other options.
With first-choice reserve Gerard Martín yet to prove himself in the top flight, Hansi Flick is now contemplating bringing in a La Masia gem to first-team training as an interim measure.
According to ESPN’s Moises Llorens, the player is Jofre Torrents.
The promising young player in Barcelona’s U19 squad could be brought in for training with the first team while Balde recuperates.
The 18-year-old left-back is one of the club’s hottest young prospects and was tipped as first-team material of the future.
Flick’s decision to give him some preseason training already suggested that he had what it takes, but Balde’s injury could accelerate him down his path to the first team.
While a first-team debut would instantly appear unlikely, Torrents will have a golden opportunity to impress Flick and set himself up for a greater role next season.
Torrents’ possible promotion comes at a critical juncture in his career, too, with Barcelona reportedly negotiating an extension to his contract.
The club considers him a long-term player, and this unexpected first-team introduction might solidify his place in their scheme of things.
For Flick, it is a challenge and opportunity in equal measure—although Balde’s absence leaves the side short in defense, it allows the German coach to get a look at La Masia’s next generation before a crazy summer transfer window.
With Barcelona’s packed schedule and thin depth at left-back, Torrents’ assimilation could prove crucial.
If he impresses in training, he might even find himself on the bench for future games.
For now, everyone will be observing how the teenager adapts to the rigors of the big league, as Flick tries to balance short-term needs with the club’s historic tradition of nurturing young talent.
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