On May 12, Sweden’s national team head coach Graham Potter announced the 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, notably excluding Barcelona’s 20-year-old winger Balde, who had just helped the Catalan club win the La Liga title. The decision sparked widespread discussion, and Balde later broke his silence on social media.
The young Barcelona star shared an image of a Bible verse: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Interpreted as a personal message of encouragement, the post reflected his reaction to missing out on the World Cup.
Potter’s squad selection has drawn criticism in Sweden. Former Swedish international and TV pundit John Guidetti did not hold back, labeling the list “cowardly.” He questioned why a player from the German second division, Alexander Bernhardsson of Holstein Kiel, was chosen over a La Liga champion like Balde. “I just can’t understand it, I really can’t accept it,” Guidetti said, expressing strong disappointment with Potter’s choices.