Cucurella advises Aleña to have a "strong mind" amid Barça ostracism

Cucurella advises Aleña to have a "strong mind" amid Barça ostracism

 Cucurella habló con SPORT sobre la situación de Aleñá en el FC Barcelona / | Jordi Gil

The defender says the midfielder must wait for his chance and take it when it comes

Spain U21 international Marc Cucurella, on loan at Getafe from Barcelona, has spoken to SPORT about Carles Aleña's troubles breaking into Ernesto Valverde's team. 

Aleña started the first game of the season against Athletic Club but was taken off at half-time and has not appeared since. 

Is it a shame to not be here with your friend Aleña?

Yes, it makes it more pleasant when he's here. He's my roommate and I miss him a bit. I've spoken to him, he has to have patience. In football, sometimes you don't get the chances you deserve, but he's a hard worker and a great player. When he gets the chance, he will take advantage of it and we will be able to enjoy him. 

To play nothing after 45 minutes in Bilbao is a little crazy, no?

They're difficult moments. But there are always new opportunities in football. It's true he's not had chances, not even been in the squad at times, butt he's strong. I spoke to him, I offered my support, gave advice and he knows he has to be focused, even if it's difficult. With a strong mind, when the chance comes, he will be able to show that he doesn't deserve his current situation. 

How's the change of position been for you, now playing further forward?

I was more of a left-back at Barça, but as we were attacking I was almost a winger. At Eibar and now with Getafe, I have played further forward. I try to help with the intense pressing and playing wide is doing me good. 

Speaking of left-back, a lot of people don't understand why you were allowed to leave...

People always say that, but if I didn't leave, I wouldn't be the player I am now. I took the right decision. Sometimes a change of scenery is good to get to know a different type of football and experience different things. 

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