FC Barcelona faced a humiliating defeat to Atletico Madrid the last time they took to the pitch, in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. The Catalans were beaten 4-0, which means they have a momentous task awaiting them in the second leg.
The first half at the Metropolitano Stadium was widely viewed inside the club as a collective failure in intensity and approach, with every player falling short of expected standards.
However, beyond the general collapse, there is a growing sense that a recurring weakness is again costing the team dearly. Much of the damage came down the flanks, where Barcelona struggled to contain Atletico’s attacks.
According to SPORT, there is concern within FC Barcelona about the current form of their starting full-backs, particularly Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde. While the club remains fully confident in the quality and long-term importance of both players, their performances this season have not matched the reliability shown last year.
Kounde, who was one of the team’s most consistent defenders last season and contributed effectively in attack, has struggled to find the same balance and consistency this campaign. His defensive actions have been below expectations, and the sense of control he once provided on the right side has faded.
On the opposite flank, Balde is also under scrutiny for his defensive contributions. His recovery runs against Atletico lacked conviction, and both his tactical positioning and intensity in duels suggested a player short on confidence.
Importantly, there is no talk of scapegoats or drastic measures. The coaching staff believes this issue has developed over time rather than stemming from a single disastrous night. There was already a push earlier in the season to demand more from both full-backs, but the desired response and consistency have yet to arrive.
Despite the concerns, neither player’s place in the starting eleven is considered under threat. Joao Cancelo is viewed primarily as a rotational option and is not seen as the defensive solution for major matches, while Gerard Martin provides depth and reliability rather than competition for a starting role.
The focus now is on detailed work with the technical staff to restore confidence, sharpen defensive concentration, and correct tactical errors. With decisive fixtures ahead and the demands of knockout ties at their peak, margins for error are minimal.
Hansi Flick and his staff see the recovery of Balde and Kounde as essential not only for stabilising the defensive line but also for re-establishing the high press that underpins Barcelona’s system.
As the season reaches its defining phase, Barcelona aim to finish strong and draw conclusions later. What is clear for now is that resolving the issues at full back is one of the key challenges standing between the team and a successful end to the campaign.
