Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has opened up about the challenges he faced during his childhood, the sacrifices made by his parents to support his football career and the racism he experienced while growing up in Spain.

The Spanish international reflected on his journey from a modest neighbourhood in Barcelona to becoming an established member of the club's first team and earning opportunities to represent his country. His story highlights the difficulties he encountered before reaching the highest level of professional football.

Balde joined Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy when he was just seven years old. However, the 22-year-old explained that securing a place in the senior team was never something he could take for granted, as many talented youngsters enter the academy without eventually making it to the first team.

Speaking during an interview with SPORT, he recalled how difficult the journey could be and explained that players were made aware of the intense competition from the beginning.

"I arrived at Barça at the age of seven and there are none left of the team at the club. From the first day they tell you that football is very complicated, that maybe one or none stays," Balde said.

The defender also emphasised that talent alone is insufficient to guarantee a successful career, stressing the importance of discipline, determination and consistent hard work. According to him, reaching professional football requires sacrifices and a willingness to remain committed despite the challenges encountered along the way.

He particularly acknowledged the efforts of his parents, who played an important role in helping him pursue his ambitions. Balde recalled how his mother frequently accompanied him to training sessions and football matches, travelling across Barcelona using public transportation.

"My mother took me to the games by subway. We have toured Barcelona by public transport to go to so many fields," he revealed.

He explained that his father's work commitments meant his mother often carried the responsibility of taking him to different football activities. Her dedication ensured that he could continue developing his abilities and attending the sessions necessary for his progress.

Balde also discussed how important sporting opportunities can be for children growing up in disadvantaged communities. He believes his achievements could encourage young people from similar backgrounds to pursue their ambitions and understand that their circumstances do not have to determine their future.

However, one of the most difficult aspects of his childhood involved the racial discrimination he and his family experienced. The Barcelona defender recalled incidents in which other children refused to play with him and his brother because of their skin colour.

"When I was little I remember wanting to play a game in a park and the children tell me and my brother that their families wouldn’t let them play with blacks," he recalled.

He further disclosed that his parents encountered difficulties when searching for employment because of their skin colour. His brother also experienced racial profiling, highlighting how discrimination affected different members of the family.

Balde's revelations come at a time when questions are being raised about his long-term future at Barcelona. The defender has reportedly struggled to secure consistent playing opportunities under manager Hansi Flick, prompting speculation that the club could consider allowing him to leave during the January transfer window.

Liverpool and Manchester United have reportedly emerged as interested clubs, with both Premier League sides monitoring his situation. Their reported interest could create an important decision for Barcelona, particularly if the defender's playing time does not improve.

Despite the uncertainty, Balde's comments have offered a deeper understanding of the personal difficulties and family sacrifices behind his rise to professional football.