Spain left-back Jordi Alba will leave the La Liga champions on a free transfer in the summer of 2023.
Alba's contract with Barca was due to expire in June 2024, but the two sides decided to end it a year early. "Barca would like to express its gratitude to Jordi Alba for his professionalism, commitment, dedication, as well as the friendly and positive relationship with all members of the Barca family, and wish him all the best for the future," the club said in a statement on May 24. "Barca will always be a home for you, Jordi."
Many players also sent their farewell messages to Alba. According to Lionel Messi, Alba was more than just a teammate. "It was great to be able to enjoy our personal relationship," Messi wrote on Instagram . "I wish you and your family all the best. I hope the new stage will continue to bring you success and joy. Thank you for everything, Jordi. A big hug."
Alba celebrates scoring in Barca's 1-0 win over Osasuna on May 2, his most recent goal for the club. Photo: EFE
Alba joined Barca from Valencia in 2012. After 11 years, the 34-year-old Spaniard has become one of the best left-backs of his generation. He has contributed to Barca's six La Liga titles, five Copa del Reys, four Spanish Super Cups, one Champions League, one European Super Cup and one FIFA Club World Cup.
With the Spanish national team, Alba participated in three Euros and three World Cups. His greatest success on the international stage was winning the Euro 2012. In the final of this tournament, which was won 4-0 by Italy, Alba contributed a goal.
Alba's decision to leave marks a generational shift at Barca. In the 2022-2023 season, Alba played only 29 matches in all competitions. The starting position now belongs to Alejandro Balde, a player who is only 19 years old but has played 43 matches.
Half a month before Alba's announcement, another Barca legend, Sergio Busquets, also confirmed his departure. The 34-year-old captain's contract is about to expire and he does not want to renew it.
According to Goal , Alba and Busquets could join a Saudi Arabian club. Cristiano Ronaldo is also playing for a Saudi Arabian club, Al Nassr. However, Japan and the United States are also options for the two former Barca stars. The American club of former player David Beckham. Inter Miami has been pursuing Busquets since 2021.
In the 2022-2023 season, Barca won La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. In the Super Cup match, Alba and his teammates beat Real Madrid 3-1. They won La Liga four games early, with a 14-point lead over Real Madrid. Alba and Busquets also played at least two matches for Barca, against Mallorca and Celta Vigo.
Thanh Quy (according to FCB, Instagram )
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