Alena’s Departure from Barcelona: Reflection on a Bold Move

Transition to Getafe and Alaves

Alena left Barcelona four years ago to join Getafe, and this summer, he secured a permanent transfer to Alaves.

Reuniting with Former Teammates

As he prepares to face his old Barcelona colleagues this weekend, Alena shared his thoughts with Sport. “I do not regret my decision. Leaving the club was challenging since I had spent my entire life there,” he explained.

Facing Hard Choices

“But when you realize you don’t have a future there and that your efforts won’t change your situation, it takes courage to seek a place where you feel valued and essential. There was a time with (Ernesto) Valverde when things shifted for me. After my first league appearance in Bilbao, I was taken off the field at halftime.”

“Following that match, I was not included in the squad for four months. This had a psychological impact on me, primarily because I wasn’t prepared for it. That’s when I decided to join Betis.”

“I lacked the patience and composure to turn things around. I was eager for quick results. These are the kinds of decisions one tends to make in youth, driven by a strong desire to play and make a mark.”