Barcelona unveils Hector Bellerin and Marcos Alonso

La Liga giants Barcelona have unveiled their two deadline day signings Hector Bellerin and Marcos Alonso on Tuesday, September 6, 2022.

Bellerin and Alonso joined Barcelona from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea respectively.

Both players were presented at the Camp Nou and gave their thoughts on joining Barcelona.

The 27-year-old Bellerin featured for the Barcelona youth system from 2003 till 2011 before joining Arsenal.

Bellerin was full of emotions on his return to Barcelona after 11 years after a stint in La Liga with Real Betis last season.

Speaking at the unveiling he said, “I’m very emotional right now. I’ve worn the shorts here many times during my academy days but it was always my dream to wear for the first time and I’ve returned home now.

“Thank you to the president and the coaching staff who have made this move possible. When you’re a kid playing in the academy you always dream of playing for the first team.

“In football, you need to take the opportunities that come to you. Here I’ve met a dressing room that’s great and has welcomed me from day one. I’m excited to create some beautiful moments with them.” #fcblive

“My message to the supporters is that I hope they enjoy watching us play football. I remember my family watching each practice of mine and competing here now is beautiful and I give my family a big kiss.”

Alonso unlike Bellerin featured for the youth academy of Real Madrid before joining Bolton Wanderers.

The 31-year-old has since featured for Fiorentina in Italy, Sunderland and Chelsea in England.

Alonso's father Marcos Alonso Peña, played several seasons for Barcelona and also represented Spain at the senior level.

At the press conference, Alonso explained his reason for joining Barcelona. He said, “I’m very happy to have the opportunity of being part of this great team. I’ve wanted this as a kid when my Dad brought me to Camp Nou.

“I can't wait to have success here and to please the fans. The success will be shared between all of us.

“I have experience and I can help the youngsters. As the President said, I can also put in a free kick.

“I already knew several of the players from the National Team. I haven’t been surprised by the team’s level. I hope to have a lot of joy and for this team to reach it’s best level.

“Besides dreaming, we must work hard and sacrifice a lot. That’s how success and joy will come.

“My dad was a unique person. I want to carve my own path in this team. I start from zero and I need to work hard to earn a spot on the team.” 

Alonso and Bellerin are both included in the Barcelona team for the Champions League opening fixture against Viktoria Plzen on Wednesday, September 7, 2022.