According to Sport, Espart's emergence has transformed the competitive landscape at Barcelona's left-back position, with Balde now relegated to third choice.

Barcelona's left-back position has undergone significant changes this season. Espart played right-back at the end of last season and had little experience on the left flank, having played there only once in his career.

However, Flick identified different potential in the young player. The German coach tested him in training several times before giving him his debut in the match against Elche. The experiment proved highly effective, and Espart has since secured a regular starting spot.

Flick is pleased with the 19-year-old's performances. Espart's tactical contribution is clear: he consistently tucks inside into the attacking midfield area, adding numbers to the midfield. This positioning allows Gündogan on the same flank to stay wide, often creating numerical superiority in the center.

Espart's rise has reshuffled the left-back hierarchy. Balde has gradually fallen out of favor, and Cancelo, signed permanently by Barcelona this summer, has also been surpassed by the academy product. Cancelo's only start in recent weeks came in the Champions League match against Feyenoord.

The coaching staff believes Espart excels in matches requiring possession and control. Despite his youth, they value his composure, calmness, and game reading ability at both ends of the pitch, which are crucial for tactical execution and maintaining defensive shape.

Cancelo represents a different profile. The Portuguese player is more adventurous and offensively aggressive, creating danger in the opponent's penalty area with his individual quality. However, he can be defensively unstable and occasionally disrupt the team's defensive balance.

Flick values having both player types available, particularly given the demanding fixture schedule. Different opponents and form fluctuations will influence selection decisions.

In this scenario, Balde's future has become uncertain. With minimal playing time so far this season, prolonged absence from the squad could see his name emerge in winter transfer window discussions. However, considerable time remains before January, and the situation could still evolve. For now, Balde remains third choice, and Flick's preference appears firm.

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