International watch: Barcelona youngster gets his first assist for national team

Barcelona youngster Alejandro Balde is enjoying a dream season. The 19-year-old has gone on to become the first-choice left-back for the Blaugrana and is making positive strides with the Spanish national team as well.

Indeed, Balde made his debut for Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2022, although he was a mere backup for Jordi Alba at the tournament in Qatar. However, that could be set to change as well.

New Spain boss Luis de la Fuente did not call Alba up to the squad in the ongoing international break. And in his first match in charge last night against Norway, he handed Balde a starting berth at left-back, ahead of Jose Gaya.

And, the Barcelona youngster made the most of his opportunity as he played the entire ninety minutes and also grabbed an assist, setting up Dani Olmo for a goal just a minute into the game. It was the teenager’s only fifth appearance for La Roja.

The 19-year-old enjoyed a solid outing throughout as Spain secured a 3-0 victory to kickstart their UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers.

With his assist, Balde became the third player under the age of 20 to assist a goal for Spain in a competitive match since at least September 2006, after Cesc Fàbregas and Pedri.

At the club level this season, Balde has played 33 times across all competitions and registered six assists. If the youngster continues at this level, it would not come as a surprise to see him follow in the footsteps of Pedri and Gavi and go on to win the Golden Trophy award for 2023.