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Barcelona’s quest for Champions League glory faces a critical hurdle as doubts loom over the availability of Alejandro Balde ahead of their semi-final clash with Inter Milan. The Spanish giants, set to host the Italian side on April 30, are sweating over the fitness of a first-team regular who suffered a hamstring injury earlier this month. While initial scans downplayed the severity, the player’s race against time—and a history of setbacks—has left fans and pundits questioning whether he’ll risk a comeback or watch from the sidelines.
With a Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid also on the horizon, Barcelona’s medical team walks a tightrope between caution and ambition.
Alejandro Balde’s Hamstring Battle
Balde, whose explosive pace and creativity have been sorely missed since he limped off against Leganés on April 12. Diagnosed with a distal injury to the biceps femoris muscle in his left thigh, Balde has been rehabbing under the watch of renowned physio Dr. Ricard Pruna—but remains a “major doubt” for the Inter Milan showdown.
Though classified as a low-grade strain, the club’s cautious approach stems from Alejandro Balde’s brutal 2023/24 campaign, where a torn proximal tendon in his right leg required surgery and a four-month absence. Pushing too hard now risks re-aggravation, a nightmare scenario for a player pivotal to Barcelona’s attacking fluidity.
“The door is open for a return,” sources admit, “but only if he’s 100%.”
Gerard Martín’s trial by fire
In Balde’s absence, 22-year-old Gerard Martín has stepped into the spotlight. The academy graduate, once seen as a stopgap, has grown into his role, earning Hansi Flick’s trust with improved defensive discipline. However, Martín lacks Balde’s game-changing flair—his surging runs, pinpoint crosses, and ability to destabilize defenses.
Barcelona’s attack has felt the void. Balde’s 2024/25 stats (2.3 key passes per game, 84% dribble success) underscore his irreplaceability. Against Inter’s compact backline, his absence could force Flick to rely on conservative build-up, ceding an edge to Simone Inzaghi’s tactical setups.
Copa del Rey Final: A dress rehearsal
Martín faces his toughest test yet in Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. Flick rested him in Barcelona’s recent La Liga fixture, signaling plans to lean on the youngster at the Bernabéu. A strong performance could ease pressure on Balde’s rushed return, but a shaky outing might amplify calls to gamble on the star defender’s fitness.
Alejandro Balde’s fate hinges on Tuesday’s training assessment. If cleared, he’ll offer a timely boost. If not, Martín retains the starting role, with veteran João Cancelo on standby for emergency cover.
Inter Milan Looms: Calculated risk or prudent patience?
Barcelona’s dilemma is clear: Risk Balde in a high-stakes semi-final or prioritize his long-term health. Club insiders suggest Flick will err on the side of caution, mindful of Balde’s past struggles. “One rushed decision could cost us next season,” a source warned.
Yet, with the Champions League trophy within reach, the temptation to deploy Balde—even at 80%—is undeniable. His mere presence could unsettle Inter’s wingers, but a recurrence might derail Barcelona’s summer plans.
As Barcelona navigates a season-defining week, Balde’s situation epitomizes the fine line between ambition and recklessness. While hope flickers, realism prevails. Expect Gerard Martín to start against Inter, with Alejandro Balde’s cameo reserved for a best-case scenario.
For Barça fans, the dream remains alive—but with Alejandro Balde, patience might just be the ultimate game-changer.
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