Barcelona

Carles Alena hits out at Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde for dropping him

By Sean Wilson | 11 September 2019

Carles Alena says Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde has offered no explanation for omitting him from the last two matchday squads following his half-time removal in Bilbao.

Carles Alena has hit out at Barcelona head coach Ernesto Valverde for dropping him.

The central midfielder, 21, started the Blaugrana's first game of the season - a 1-0 defeat against Athletic Bilbao - but was hooked at half-time and has been left out of the two subsequent squads entirely.

The academy graduate says that he has been offered no explanation by his coach for being dropped so dramatically, and insists he has what it takes to play for the club.

"There is no explanation for me being dropped after the game in Bilbao," Alena told RAC1.

"No player likes being left out of the squad. It's a decision taken by the coach. Of course, it affects the player.

"I think I have a chance of fighting for a spot in the lineup. I think everyone who is in the squad will be used. I 100% believe I can turn the situation around. I am determined to succeed at Barcelona."

Alena has made 35 appearances for Barcelona so far in his career, scoring three goals for the Blaugrana.