Valverde blocked Alena loan to Real Betis Barcelona Days before the deadline

Ernesto Valverde personally intervened to prevent the release of Carles Alena on loan to Real Betis.

The young Barcelona midfielder came close to moving to the Andalusians just days before the end of the summer transfer window.

However, the coach blocked the move as he wanted the 21-year-old to remain as one of his many options in the midfield department.

Alena started Barcelona's season opener against Athletic Club but was unable to impress at San Mames and was substituted.

After that, he failed to even make the squad in the following two league games which opened up the possibility of him moving out on loan.

Rubi, the Real Betis coach, who knows Alena well from his Barcelona days, wanted Alena according to a report by Canal Sur Radio which was verified by MARCA.

Alena was seriously entertaining the offer but Valverde had the final say as he regards the player as part of his plans.

It remains to be seen if the youngster will be given opportunities to convince Valverde of his worth once again after his showing in the Basque country, and repay the coach's faith in keeping him at the club.