Alena: I won't rush LaLiga Santander - Barcelona Cites the patience of Sergi Roberto, Iniesta and Xavi

Though many supporters see him as some sort of midfield saviour for Barcelona, Carles Alena is taking things nice and slowly, and developing at his own pace.

Looking to Sergi Roberto, Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez as examples, Alena is convinced his time will come in due course.

"I'm in no hurry, you have to be patient and learn the basics like Sergi Roberto, Iniesta or Xavi," he said to Mundo Deportivo and Sport.

"It takes hard work and dedication, but it's even harder to be in the first team for ten years."

As the player needs minutes on the pitch, there had been suggestions of a loan deal elsewhere.

"Barcelona haven't proposed a loan or for me to leave in the winter window," he continued.

"It's my first year at the club after all."

The player was also asked about his injury and what it's like to play alongside Leo Messi.

"It was a hell to be injured," he added.

"I had a very bad time in those three months, but it helped me, it was an apprenticeship.

"Iniesta sent me encouragement to come back soon because the first team was waiting for me.

"Valverde called me right after the operation to find out how I was and he gave me peace of mind, that I was a first team player, that the injury had not changed anything and that the club wouldn't look for a way out for me.

"I was very grateful because it gave me security.

"People can't even imagine what training and playing with Messi is like.

"The best thing is to just enjoy it."