Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick left Alejandro Balde out of his squad for the Spanish league opener against Elche, throwing the left-back's future at the Catalan club back into doubt just days before the transfer window shuts.
Speaking to Movistar before kick-off, Flick revealed he had sat down with Balde that morning and told the player he was "not fully committed". Staying at home was the best option, the German explained, giving Balde the chance to gather his thoughts before the pair spoke again the next day.
The signs had been there at the pre-match press conference. Flick stressed that every Barcelona player needed to be completely convinced of their ability to fight for a place in the side.
"It is important to know whether the player is convinced of his ability to compete for his position," said the German. "This is what I want to see from all the players in my team." The words carried far more weight once he dropped Balde from the opening fixture.
Balde did not make the trip to the Martínez Valero for the meeting with Elche. After that personal conversation with Flick, one thing became clear: the Spain full-back's situation is no longer just a technical matter. It is now tied to his own stance on his future at the club.
Fewer than 10 days remain before the window closes, and everything is still on the table. Three offers have arrived for Balde, leaving Barcelona's board with a decisive call to make: keep him or let him go in the final days of the market.