Barcelona's Problems Every Summer
July 31, 2026 ·
FC Barcelona continues to face challenges in overcoming the wing-back problem, which could impact their performance in domestic and European competitions.
Barcelona's Problems Every Summer
According to Mundodeportivo.
Background
Jules Koundé, who initially preferred to play as a centre-back, has adapted well to the right-back position. His solid performances in this position have helped Barcelona, but reliance on temporary solutions like this shows the need for a more permanent full-back signing to face the challenge of the Champions League.
Why this is important
FC Barcelona's ongoing wing-back problems could impact their performance in the Champions League and domestic competitions. With the need to have players who are not only solid in defense but also able to contribute in attack, uncertainty in this position could be a barrier to the club's ambitions of returning to winning ways. Koundé, who is adapting as a right-back, showed that Barcelona are still looking for a long-term solution to this problem.
Main Points
- Barcelona's Problems Every Summer.
- FC Barcelona continues to face challenges in overcoming the wing-back problem, which could impact their performance in domestic and European competitions.
- El problema del Barça de cada verano, por Hèctor Coca.
Every year, the transfer window opens and Barcelona's full-back problem remains unsolved. As if it were a repeating cycle, this team continues to struggle to find the right solution. Wing-back is a very important position in Barcelona's game scheme, which requires players who are not only solid in defense, but also able to contribute in attack.
In the past, Barcelona was known for having world-class wing defenders, such as Jordi Alba, Dani Alves and Eric Abidal. They are players who are not only able to defend well, but are also able to roam the flanks and provide dangerous passes. However, currently, the situation is different. While last season, Jules Koundé adapted well as a right-back, the decision appeared to be only a short-term solution. Koundé actually prefers to play as a center back, but thanks to his solid performances, his position at right back is maintained.
Meanwhile, Alejandro Balde, who was expected to fill the left back position, has not been able to meet expectations. Although he showed potential, Balde was not consistent enough to be relied on as the main wing-back. His inability to make more contributions in attack, such as creating opportunities or scoring goals, is a concern for coach Xavi Hernandez.
With the arrival of the experienced Joao Cancelo, Barcelona hopes to fill the gaps on the left side of the defense. However, with Cancelo already 32 years old, many doubt whether he is the right long-term solution. Indeed, currently, a month before the transfer window closes, there appear to be no concrete plans to strengthen the wing-back position.
At the start of the summer, names such as Marc Cucurella and Grimaldo were discussed about joining Camp Nou. However, with Cucurella now defending Real Madrid and Grimaldo joining Atletico Madrid, Barcelona must look for other alternatives. While relying on centre-backs who can play on the wings is a common solution, this is often ineffective.
Barcelona needs a wing-back who can have a big impact on the game, as Jordi Alba and Dani Alves have done in the past. With a wing-back problem that has persisted for several seasons, Barcelona must immediately find a solution to be able to compete at the highest level, especially in the upcoming Champions League. Without concrete steps to strengthen this position, big challenges await them in tougher competition.
What happened next
With the arrival of Joao Cancelo, Barcelona hope to strengthen the left side of their defence, despite doubts over his age and consistency. Alejandro Balde needs to improve his performance to be reliable as the main wing-back, while Koundé will probably continue to act as a right-back if there are no new signings. The next summer transfer window could be an important moment for Barcelona to look for a wing-back who fits their playing philosophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the players involved in Barcelona's wing-back problem?
Players involved include Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde and Joao Cancelo.
Which club did Joao Cancelo join Barcelona from?
The article does not mention Joao Cancelo's previous clubs.
Why is Barcelona looking for a new full-back?
Barcelona are looking for a new full-back due to ongoing problems in finding the right solution for the position.
What is Joao Cancelo's transfer status?
Joao Cancelo has joined Barcelona, but there are doubts over whether he is a long-term solution.
When does the transfer window end?
The article states that the transfer window will close a month after writing, but does not give an exact date.