Ex Barcelona starlet explains how Celtic loan spell and Brendan Rodgers influence helped shape his career
Defender reveals the key lessons he learned under the former Celtic manager during his short stint at Parkhead
Alex Valle believes his six-month spell at Celtic proved an important chapter in his development, with the former Barcelona youngster highlighting the demands of Scottish football and Brendan Rodgers' coaching influence.
The Spanish defender joined the Hoops on loan from Barcelona for the first half of the 2024/25 campaign, making 19 appearances before bringing his time in Glasgow to an early conclusion to join Como.
Although his stay in Scotland was relatively brief, the 22-year-old has reflected positively on the experience, insisting the physical intensity of the Premiership helped him develop as a player.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca, Valle explained how adapting to a different style of football presented a valuable challenge.
“I worked hard because it's a different league,” he said. “Very tough, very physical. Even though the technical level isn't high, it's hard to win.”
It wasn't just the demands of Scottish football that left an impression, however. Valle also singled out Rodgers' tactical philosophy as something he took considerable benefit from during his time at Parkhead.
“Brendan Rodgers' style of play caught my attention,” he added. “I ended up learning some midfield concepts.”
Valle's move to Celtic came after he had spent pre-season working under Hansi Flick at Barcelona. He enjoyed his time with the German coach and was comfortable operating at right-back, although his preferred position remained on the opposite flank.
With Alejandro Balde and Gerard Martín ahead of him in the pecking order, the opportunity to gain regular first-team experience and play Champions League football proved difficult to turn down.
Valle revealed that he had an “very honest and friendly” discussion with Flick before weighing up his options alongside his family and representatives. Once Celtic emerged as a possibility, he was keen to embrace the opportunity.
In a separate interview with BBC Alba, Valle also reflected on his time at Celtic, saying: “Obviously, at Celtic I learned a lot. It was a bit shorter, but I think it's a process. I'm still learning more things every time.”
His next move took him to Italy, where he joined Como under former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fàbregas. That switch has proved another significant step in his career, establishing himself as a regular in the Como side with his performances helping the club attract attention on the European stage. His progress has also earned him international recognition with Spain's Under-21 squad.
Como were sufficiently impressed to make his move permanent, reportedly paying Barcelona around £6million to secure his services. The defender has since continued to make an impression, playing the full 90 minutes and providing an assist in the Italian’s thumping 9-1 demolition over Lens earlier this month.
*The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly