This past weekend, Barcelona faced off against Atletico Madrid in what was the most watched game in La Liga so far this season. The match was played in Barcelona. The two teams were tied for first place in terms of points, with the latter team having a game in hand.

As a result of Joao Cancelo’s outstanding performance against Porto, in which he not only scored but also assisted on a goal, the blaugranes decided to play him at left defense. Before him, Joao Felix and Frenkie de Jong were playing the left winger and left central midfielder positions, respectively. Frenkie de Jong was also playing.

Cancelo’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, despite the fact that he was unable to get his name on the scoresheet this time around. As a result of his strong defensive play and inventive forward play, he was given the opportunity to play the whole 90 minutes.

On the other hand, this meant that Alejandro Balde would not be included in the lineup. Although it was anticipated that the Spaniard would enter the game in the second half, Xavi continued to play with Cancelo on the left side of the field, and he eventually came off with all three points.

when some time had passed, it was stated that Balde was enraged by the game and went straight to the locker room when the final whistle blew.

It was not reported by SPORT that the reason for his displeasure was that Xavi had him warm up on many occasions throughout the second half, but in the end, he did not end up substituting him in.

Ferran Torres came on for Joao Felix, Lamine Yamal came in for Raphinha, and Fermin Lopez came on for Pedri toward the very end of the game. In point of fact, Xavi only used three replacements throughout the course of the match.

Balde was protected by Cancelo.

Even though Cancelo is currently in far better form than Balde, who is having a very unimpressive season, particularly offensively, the Portuguese player backed his teammate after the game against Porto. Balde is having a rough season overall.

All of my positions are fine with me. I constantly make an effort to assist the team. Balde is worthy of playing as well due to the fact that he is an excellent player. He made the statement regarding the Spaniard, saying, “We have a bunch of great players.”

In light of the fact that Barcelona will be playing Girona at the Olympic Saint Montjuic Stadium on Sunday, it is currently unknown who Xavi will select to perform the left-back position.