A few conversations surrounding Barcaâs La Masia loanee, Alex Valle, have stirred the air after Fabrizioâs tweet on X. The journalist has announced that the youngster is set for the Italian side Como as the deal nears a closure.
Barca fans have had a few mixed opinions on this topic. With Gerard Martinâs recent performances in question and squad depth required at the left-back spot, is this the right call for the club and player?
The Case for Recalling Valle
Valleâs pre-season performances brilliantly displayed his offensive and defensive attributes. I think the La Masia player excels at providing some peach crosses and can also create chances through playmaking. He can even switch as a right-back if needed. I still remember his brilliant trivela assist in pre-season against Real Madrid. Have a look at it:
He is a versatile fullback and can become an invaluable asset like Balde and help the team compete.
Barcaâs current depth at fullback is hugely concerning. Balde cannot play 60 games in a season, and like it or not, Gerard Martin has not lifted fans from their seats. Valleâs recall could be an immediate solution. The youngster is reliable and talented. He has a recall clause in his loan contract, and Barca could quickly get him back through it.
The Case Against Recalling Valle
On the contrary, Valleâs development also remains a priority. The player has played very few minutes at Celtic, and getting back to Barcelona might be too big a pressure task for the 20-year-old. Also, Gerard Martin is much more physical than Valle and better in the air.
Barca loaned the youngster, considering the growth and development he would get at Celtic, but the player struggled to find a place in the team. This means the player is also not likely to start games here at Barca, a far more competitive club than Celtic.
A Balanced Approach
I believe an ideal scenario in this situation would involve strategic planning. If Barca calls Valle back, Flick must assure the player he is part of the plan. Barca will also strengthen the left-back position in at least the shorter run, allowing Valle to grow.
La Masia has been a talent factory for Barcelona over the years. Believing in La Masiaâs talents has almost always worked out for Barca. As the player is on the verge of leaving for Como, what would be the best approach for Barca right now? Let us know in the comments.