Barcelona will host Real Sociedad at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Sunday evening in a match that could decide whether they leapfrog Real Madrid, who are two points ahead having played one game more.
Hansi Flick’s squad list did not include Alejandro Balde despite the young full back having resumed training with the main group this week after nearly four weeks out with a hamstring injury sustained on September 3.
The absence forced Flick to continue relying on Gerard Martin whose impressive rise from lower divisions has been one of the more remarkable La Liga stories.
While academy product Jofre Torrents has also been introduced gradually to manage Martín’s workload.
Barcelona have accumulated 16 points from six league matches and enter this encounter after defeating Real Oviedo 3-1 in midweek, while Real Sociedad sit 17th with only five points.
Balde could return for important showdown against PSG
According to Diario SPORT, Balde has been cleared by medical staff and could be available for Wednesday’s Champions League clash with PSG .
Hansi Flick will come up against Luis Enrique who once delivered Barcelona their second treble and now leads the reigning European champions.
The 21-year-old left back has been a consistent starter since breaking through in 2021 and his potential return offers Barcelona vital balance on the flank before a match that may shape the group standings against one of the strongest opponents in Europe.