Lamine Yamal angry at Barcelona over Alejandro Balde exit

Lamine Yamal’s frustration has exposed a dispute inside Barcelona over the possible departure of Alejandro Balde, one of the winger’s closest friends. The episode intensified after Yamal missed training, while Balde was left out of the squad as his future at the club came under pressure.

Yamal started Barcelona’s 5-0 victory over Elche but appeared unhappy throughout the match. After being substituted, he did not celebrate any of the three goals scored by Barcelona in the second half. He then failed to attend the following day’s training session, adding to speculation about a disagreement with the club.

Balde was not selected by Hansi Flick, amid reports that he would no longer be Barcelona’s first-choice left-back this season. That situation has reportedly encouraged the defender to consider other options. Flick said Yamal needed to clear his mind before the issue could be addressed, while denying that he had told the player to leave Barcelona.

Yamal is also said to have approached Jorge Mendes, who represents both players, in an effort to stop Balde’s move. That reportedly angered president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, who reminded Yamal that his role was to concentrate on being a player. The dispute now links the teenager’s mood, his absence and the uncertainty surrounding Balde’s place at the club.