Alex Balde could be set for a recall to the FC Barcelona starting line-up for Saturday's meeting with Deportivo Alavés. Despite being pushed to the fringes by Hansi Flick during the summer, the full-back opted to remain in Catalonia, turning down interest from Manchester United and other suitors in a determined bid to prove his worth.

Absences for Xavi Espart and Eric García, alongside the unavailability of Jules Koundé, look set to pave the way for the defender's return. Flick already turned to him during 'El Clásico' following Espart's injury, and could now hand him a start. According to 'Mundo Deportivo', João Cancelo could be deployed at right-back, though Brian Fariñas also provides an alternative.

Balde has not started a match for Barcelona since May 23, in the side's final fixture of the previous La Liga campaign against Valencia. First-team minutes have been scarce ever since, limited to brief cameos against Racing Santander, PSG, and Real Madrid. An impressive performance against Alavés could now prove pivotal in restoring Flick's faith and settling his future ahead of the winter transfer window.