Alex Valle Admits Celtic’s Bigger than Expected

Alex Valle has expressed his amazement at the scale and passion surrounding Celtic since his arrival.

Valle, who joined Celtic on a season-long loan, admitted he initially underestimated the club’s stature but has since been overwhelmed by the fervent support, particularly during the Glasgow Derby and Champions League nights at Celtic Park.

“If I had to pick one thing that has surprised me I would choose that Celtic is maybe bigger than I thought,” he said, quoted by Football Scotland.

“I thought it wasn’t quite that big, and I didn’t expect such an atmosphere like the one we experienced at Paradise. The level of the Game here in training and in each Game as well is awesome. So, yeah, I’m really happy.”

Despite facing the impending challenges of a harsh Scottish winter, Valle is adapting well to life in Glasgow. He acknowledged the weather is getting worse by the day but remains optimistic about the experience, buoyed by frequent visits and support from friends and family:

“I like living in Scotland. The weather is getting worse every day. But I have to wait until November or December. They have told me all about that! But Glasgow is a really good city and I’m enjoying it.

“I have close friends from Barcelona, who I talk with every week. They have been asking me about Celtic. Then there is my family as well. They have been coming to Scotland and enjoying it too. So, yeah, I’m happy in a personal way too.”

Valle’s transition into Celtic’s first team has been impressive, with the defender adapting quickly to the intensity of Scottish Football. He was a little shaky against Falkirk, but it was the first time that defence had played together and Luis Palma, who was playing ahead of him, didn’t help him.

He’s looked solid since, though. The youngster has added something different to the attack, and has been quick on the ball, not taking time to think before making his next move.

He’ll likely get the start in the top-of-the-table clash against Aberdeen, with Greg Taylor nursing an injury at the moment. It will be the left-back’s biggest test in a Celtic shirt.