Xavi spoke to the press after the 4-0 victory over Real Valladolid and explained his decision about preferring Alejandro Balde over Jordi Alba.
Alejandro Balde got his second consecutive start in the league against Real Valladolid after his impressive performance against Real Sociedad. Balfe has earned the confidence of the coach and pushed Jordi Alba to the sidelines. Xavi has been asked about benching Jordi Alba in his post-match press briefing and he responded that “meritocracy” is the only answer.
Xavi: “Balde is playing because he’s working very well. We’re speaking about meritocracy. It’s his moment.”
Xavi said that he has spoken with the club captains and they have accepted their new roles. Gerard Pique has not played a single minute yet in the league and Jordi Alba has only started once in the first three games of La Liga. Xavi said that they will get their chances but one thing is clear they are not the first choice for the coach.
Xavi: “The captains are doing well to lead the group. They accept their situations. Jordi Alba and Piqué will have minutes and opportunities.”
Balde came through the youth ranks of La Masia and seems delighted with his progress with the first team. He also spoke to the press after the win against Real Valladolid
Balde: “I feel so happy, and I’m getting better every day. I’m very close to achieving my childhood dream. I hope to continue playing at Barça and gaining experience in the first team.”
Balde: “I want to thank the coach, and I hope to keep improving.”
Balde: “Playing with Lewandowski will be madness, he’ll score a ton of goals.”
Alejandro Balde played the entire 90 minutes against Valladolid and he has justified the trust of the coach with his remarkable performance. Below are the stats of the 18 years old Left back against Real Valladolid.
Touches: 71
Passes: 43/48
Accurate Long Balls: 1/2
Shots: 01
Dribbles: 01
Times Dispossessed: 0
Tackles: 02
Interceptions: 02
Ball Recoveries: 09
Duels Won: 4/7
Times Dribbled Past: 0