Barcelona midfielder Alex Collado is happy with his move to Elche.

Collado has joined the LaLiga minnows on a season-long loan.

He said, “I'm leaving FC Barcelona because of the need to continue growing as a footballer, get minutes and feel important. It is a beautiful year with the Centenary and I feel very excited.

"I also opted for the fans. I want to return the confidence and what they have transmitted to me on the pitch. Starting Monday, enjoy things with the fans. I'm looking forward to enjoying myself and contributing my grain of sand.

“It was a tough year last season, at the beginning, as I couldn't play due to bad luck (he was left without being registered). This year I started very excited and wanting to grow and add minutes to show what I'm worth. There is no better place than Elche to do it.

“There is a great squad to have a very good season. My colleagues and staff have received me very well. The objective is permanence and from there to think about other things."