Carles Alena hits out at Barca board over shirt number
His 21 was promised to Frenkie de Jong without his permission
Carles Alena caused some surprise by hitting out at Barcelona’s board after they trained in Tokyo. He was cross because they offered Frenkie de Jong his No 21 shirt without asking him.
“I knew that Frenkie wanted the 21 and it was something between him and me. I would have liked a message from the board because they promised him the shirt without warning me. He was humble, he asked me for it and I gave it to him because it was for a sentimental reason,” explained Alena.
Alena insisted that “They promised him it without telling me anything. Frenkie is a good guy and humble.
“I don’t feel good because I’ve always behaved well with the club, we have good communication. They just needed to drop me a message.”
After issuing that message he also said he wants a proper role this season.
“I want to take a step forward in my second year in the first team, do what the coach asks of me and fight to be a starter.”
He has no interest in going out on loan.
“My intention is to stay, I’ve spoken to the board and the coach, there will be no departure. I’m at the biggest club in the world.
“(Valverde) wants me to take a step forward and I feel his confidence in me.”
