After Barcelona’s disappointing defeat to Leganés, it became increasingly clear to the club’s board that immediate reinforcements were necessary to address weaknesses within the squad. As reported by the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, head coach Hansi Flick has emphasized that the primary focus for the upcoming winter transfer window must be securing a left-back capable of providing competition for Alejandro Balde. The young defender has come under significant scrutiny for his recent performances, which have fallen short of expectations.
The absence of a viable alternative to Balde not only limits his growth and development as a promising academy graduate but also constrains Hansi Flick’s tactical options. Without a dependable backup for the left flank, Flick faces significant challenges in making strategic adjustments when needed. This issue was glaringly exposed during the humiliating loss to Leganés at Montjuïc Stadium, a match that highlighted Barcelona’s defensive frailties. Balde, who has often been trusted as the starting left-back, struggled noticeably in this encounter. His display was marred by a lack of confidence, lapses in focus, and costly mistakes at crucial moments, which further underscored the need for reinforcements.
In response to these concerns, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has identified Álvaro Carreras, a promising young left-back currently playing for Benfica, as a potential solution. Carreras has enjoyed a standout season in Portugal’s top flight, quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising and sought-after full-backs in European football. The Spanish defender boasts a skill set that perfectly aligns with Barcelona’s immediate needs: he combines speed and attacking prowess with defensive solidity—qualities that could help address the deficiencies seen in Balde’s recent form.
However, Barcelona faces significant challenges in their pursuit of Carreras. Benfica is understandably reluctant to part ways with one of their star players midway through the season, meaning any potential deal would require a considerable financial investment. Despite this, club president Joan Laporta remains committed to supporting the move, recognizing the importance of reinforcing the left-back position to ensure the team remains competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
Hansi Flick has also made his concerns abundantly clear to the club’s sporting directors. The German coach believes that bolstering the team’s defensive depth is a top priority for improving overall stability. Adding a high-caliber left-back like Carreras would not only address existing vulnerabilities but also provide Flick with greater tactical flexibility, enabling him to adapt his strategies more effectively in challenging matches.
Ultimately, Barcelona’s ability to secure Carreras’ services during the winter transfer window could prove vital in resolving their defensive struggles and reinvigorating their campaign across all fronts.
