Alejandro Balde backs Barcelona newcomer Karim Adeyemi to make big impact

Speaking during Barcelona's pre-season training camp in England in a Q&A on the club's official YouTube channel, the 22-year-old praised the German forward after the pair began working together following Adeyemi's arrival.

Although Adeyemi has only recently joined Hansi Flick's squad, Balde said the two have already formed a good relationship.

"It hasn't been long since he joined us, but we've spoken a lot," Balde said. "I think we've built a good relationship. He seems like a calm person. He'll help us a lot during the season, and I'm sure he will. He's very fast. I've known him for a long time and I've always admired his speed."

Barcelona have strengthened their attack by signing both Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon, although the club continues to search for a long-term centre-forward after missing out on its preferred target, Julian Álvarez.

Balde, who was not involved at the World Cup and has been following an individual training programme during pre-season, admitted he still has plenty of room to improve despite already being an established first-team player.

"On an individual level, I want to keep developing and learning. I'm still a young player and I have a lot of room for improvement," he said.

The Spain international also set ambitious collective targets, insisting Barcelona want to build on last season's success.

"As a team, we want to stay on the path we're following and improve it. If we can win more trophies, even better."

Away from the pitch, Balde highlighted the close bond within the dressing room, singling out Raphinha for the support he gives younger players.

"I get on really well with him and his family. He's really close to the young players," Balde said.

He also listed Marc Casado, Lamine Yamal, Hector Fort, Gavi, Ronald Araujo and Roony Bardghji among his closest teammates.

Looking back on his Barcelona career so far, Balde chose the dramatic 2022/23 Clasico victory under Xavi Hernandez as his favourite match after providing the assist for Franck Kessie's stoppage-time winner.

"We won it at the last minute, and I remember the assist well," he said.

His favourite goal was his strike against Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final, continuing his memorable moments against Barcelona's biggest rivals.

Balde also revealed his footballing idols, naming former striker Samuel Eto'o as his childhood hero before paying tribute to club legend Jordi Alba.

"As a left-back, my idol is Jordi Alba," he said. "I always watched him play. I loved his passing and his pace. For me, he's the best full-back in Barcelona's history."