Barcelona Edge Leganés, But Suffer Blow with Balde Injury Ahead of Crucial Matches
Barcelona came out on top in a gritty 1–0 win against Leganés at the Butarque Stadium, keeping their La Liga title hopes alive. With momentum on their side, the team now shifts its focus to the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Borussia Dortmund, after a commanding 4–0 victory in the first leg.
However, the club has been dealt a setback with news that left-back Alejandro Balde will miss several key matches due to injury. According to Spanish outlet AS, Balde sustained a hamstring injury in his left leg during the Leganés match. Medical evaluations confirmed he will be sidelined for two to three weeks.
This injury comes as a significant blow, especially with Balde having previously undergone surgery for a similar issue in his right knee. As a result, he has been ruled out of the second leg against Dortmund, upcoming La Liga matches against Celta Vigo and Real Mallorca, and most notably, the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid.
Reports state that even if there’s a chance for a quicker recovery, Barcelona will not risk rushing Balde back for the cup final. The club is instead eyeing a potential return in the Champions League semifinals—if they secure progression.
