The 19-year-old Alejandro Balde has already become a cornerstone for the national team. He commands the left flank and hopes to keep growing with the Reds. The Barça player spoke openly in an interview with Prensa Ibérica, defending the locker room’s stance amid the Rubiales affair and reaffirming his commitment to the team.
Relating to
This focus began when players announced plans to face Rubiales, and the team’s current mood remains a topic of conversation. How are they handling it now?
There were several hectic days as the situation unfolded. In the end, the four captains spoke up, and a unified idea emerged. A formal statement was released, and the group reflected on it together.
National Team players reject Rubiales’ “unacceptable behavior”
Jordi Gil
Rubiales faced criticism after a video linked to the Merlí series circulated. Was that the missing piece in the conversation?
From Balde’s perspective, not really. The captains have moved on, each with their own view, and they acted as a unit when it mattered.
Videos and social media show Barça players sharing close bonds with female footballers. Does Aitana Bonmatí’s Monaco premiere comment resonate with Balde and his teammates?
Balde notes that strong relationships exist within the squad. They share many memorable moments, and the bigger story is the World Cup win, which fills Spaniards with pride.
Is Balde a fan of Aitana’s move?
Opinions differ, and mutual respect for different choices remains essential. Shared values and support matter most.
“Laminated Yamal is amazing”
I’m shifting topics—how’s your wrist?
Balde responds that a minor issue arose, but he regrouped and played well against Osasuna.
Did missing the Nations League hurt after an injury kept him out?
He explains that the injury happened late in the league campaign, just before the Nations League, and while it was disappointing, the team’s continued success was something to celebrate. It was another triumph for a talented group.
How is Lamine Yamal’s integration going with La Roja?
Lamine, at 16, has joined gradually. His quality will prove itself over time.
De la Fuente described him as a key addition. How would Balde describe him?
Balde says the youngster is extraordinary. At 16, he plays as if he belongs here, and his presence will shape the future of the squad.
He chose not to dwell on Dembele’s departure.
Ousmane was a key contributor in attack. The door opens for others, and Balde believes the team will continue to deliver.
What’s the vibe with Lamine Yamal personally?
Lamine is a calm kid, someone Balde has known since their days at La Masia. He’s cheerful, fond of jokes, and carries a genuine happiness that lifts the squad.
Do Balde and Gavi act like brothers on and off the field?
Both are still very young at nineteen. They aim to guide and support each other as best they can.
Did Gavi’s behavior at the first De la Fuente rally surprise Balde?
People talk a lot, Balde says, but Gavi is a solid guy. He’s never in trouble and the friendship endures.
With Jordi Alba gone, does Balde feel the extra pressure on the left flank?
Balde emphasizes a single-minded focus: the same goal every day. Whether he wears the shirt or another player does, improvement remains the priority.
“Borja Iglesias? We’re in a free country”
What about Luis de la Fuente? While not mentioned in the statement, the team shows solid support.
He describes the coach as excellent and well-known across the club. The squad honors the coach’s guidance and acts accordingly on the pitch.
What are Balde’s thoughts on Borja Iglesias stepping back from the national team amid federation changes?
Everyone makes their own calls. Freedom to decide is part of the game, and Balde respects every choice.
Can Balde imagine playing at his first European Championship?
Yes, it would be a historic first, and qualifying for the tournament would be a proud moment.
The future looks bright for the team…
If the squad remains young and talented, it will surely shine in the years ahead. The Barça academy continues to fuel a strong pipeline, translating youth talent into future success.
The same optimism extends to Barça, growing from the academy to the first team.
That pipeline will keep bearing fruit, Balde notes, strengthening both the national team and the club at large.
“Joaos are for ten people”
Joao Cancelo arrives, a winger Balde has already noted for his versatility on both flanks?
Yes, Cancelo is a top winger. While Balde mostly focuses on the left-back role, Cancelo’s ability on the left is undeniable and will bring plenty of value.
Is Joao Félix a different kind of player?
He is also a stellar performer. His quality can elevate the attack and provide substantial support.
Xavi talks about the locker room as a family. The Joaos have a reputation for friction; do Balde think coexistence is a problem?
Balde believes the group is more like a family now than ever. After years together, trust runs deep, and the team functions as one unit.
“Ansu is like a brother, but he will definitely come back”
Are Balde and the squad saddened by departures like Abde, Eric, or Ansu?
Each player seeks minutes and progression. It’s natural to feel the sting of departures, yet the door remains open for a return, should that be the right path. Ansu is considered family, and support travels both ways.
Xavi also suggested the academy is a constant source of talent, and La Masia continues to feed the first team’s needs.
Balde agrees that the academy is crucial. The young players stepping up will reinforce the squad’s depth and future prospects.
Do Balde and peers feel pressure about their weight in the team?
Each player brings something unique. The balance is simple: everyone matters equally, contributing to the team’s overall strength.
“The Champions League is a fight, a dream”
Captain Sergi Roberto says the club aims to win the Champions League.
Balde agrees. It’s a challenge, a dream, and something the squad relentlessly pursues.
Does experience from players like Oriol Romeu or Gundogan help the younger ones?
Older teammates provide guidance; their calm presence helps the group grow more composed and capable.
He mentions the close ties with Nico Williams and shared summers—a sign of strong camaraderie among players from Bilbao and beyond.
Balancing friendships with professional focus is part of building a sustainable team culture. The future will reveal how those bonds evolve as everyone contributes where they are needed.
Will there ever be a moment when those two — Balde and his peers from the Basque region — play together at the same time?
Balde smiles at the thought. The future will tell, and for now the plan is to stay focused, work hard, and let the results speak for themselves.