While the Barcelona right back hasn’t entirely underperformed, his output can be linked to some changes within the set up of the team.
THE JOAOs EFFECT:
The arrival of the duo has been a major factor in the decline in output associated with Balde. Taking away most of the offensive responsibility he had during the course of last season. In the previous season, Xavi opted for a four man midfield for the major part of the season, leaving every offensive responsibility to Alejandro Balde on the left flank. The arrival of Joao Felix has meant the Barcelona left back now has to share the offensive responsibility with the Portuguese star, who has performed at a decent level with his ability to cut in and pick out the final pass or have a shot on goal.
Whilst on the other flank in contrast to the defensive right back Barcelona deployed in the previous season, the arrival of Joao Cancelo has created more offensive options for the Catalan giants going forward.
THE ATTACKING SETUP:
Xavi in the previous season, set up his team in a 3-2-5 formation when attacking . With the likes of Christensen, Araujo and Kounde making up the back three. Balde and Raphinha were frequently charged with the responsibility at the flanks while Busquets and Frenkie served as protectors to the back line in a four man midfield.
However the arrival of an attacking fullback has forced Xavi into a change in the previous setup of his squad. With the Barcelona manager now opting for a 2-3-5 in offensive transitions . A formation which has seen the flanks exploited by the opposition teams during counters as a result of attacking fullbacks.
This change has created a more conservative approach in the overall game of Alenjandro Balde, in which the La Masia graduate has been deprived of his unlimited freedom when attacking.
While the La Masia graduate has underperformed compared to the previous season, it should be said that he his still 19 years old and has enough time to create a balance in his overall game with a high level of effectiveness.
