Most of the free agents that Barcelona have signed in recent seasons have been huge successes – either from a sporting or an economic perspective. However, the Catalan club has had their share of flops from the window as well.
One of those players who could not succeed at Barcelona was Marcos Alonso. Having had a successful stint at Chelsea, the club snapped him as a potential backup to Jordi Alba but the emergence of Alejandro Balde all but ended the Spaniard’s career even before it started.
Over the course of his two seasons at the club, Alonso became an increasingly frustrating figure to watch. He looked out of pace with the team whenever given a chance and hardly showed flashes of the brilliance he did back at Stamford Bridge.
Barcelona, rightly, did not extend his contract and he joined Celta Vigo this summer as a free agent and will now welcome Hansi Flick’s men this weekend. When asked about the magnitude of the game, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, here is what the 33-year-old had to say:
“A special match, especially because we are playing against the league leaders. We have already shown in previous games, against strong teams, that we can compete with anyone, but we haven’t managed to get a good result. This is another opportunity to give our fans three points.”
Despite Barcelona’s dominance, Alonso remained fairly optimistic of his side’s ability to hold their own against the league leaders. He continued:
“They are the leaders, and that’s where a team like Barcelona aspires to be. I believe we won’t lack attitude, hard work, or determination. From there, we’ll play our game. We’ve competed against all the big teams, and it’s the small details that tip the scales.”
Alonso was then asked if he harbors any resentment towards Barcelona for hardly playing throughout last season. The veteran said:
“Not at all. I don’t need any revenge. Last year, I didn’t have continuity, and it’s tough, especially with the injury. Now, I’m enjoying football again. I’m very happy and eager for the match to come.”
Finally, the Spanish defender was quizzed if he would celebrate if he scored against his former club to which he said: “I’ve always celebrated when I scored.”
It remains to be seen how Alonso fares when Celta Vigo take on Barcelona this weekend. Hansi Flick’s men will be looking for the win and only time will tell if they can bounce back from the Sociedad game with a solid performance this weekend.