Veteran Barcelona defender considering future, reunion with Lionel Messi on the cards

The roller-coaster start to the new campaign continued for Barcelona, as after two successive wins against Valencia and Dynamo Kyiv, they succumbed to a 1-2 defeat to arch-rivals Real Madrid at Camp Nou in the first El Clasico of the 2021/22 season.

The result leaves the Blaugrana in ninth place in the La Liga standings, six points shy of league leaders Real Sociedad after nine matchweeks. And while there is plenty of time left in the season, things do not look all that good for the club, especially with their Champions League knockout hopes also dangling by a thread.

Despite the situation being as it is, Barcelona are continuing to put their faith in manager Ronald Koeman and back him. The Catalans find their hands somewhat tied in the matter as sacking the Dutchman would come with financial repercussions, while there is also the concern of not finding a viable replacement on short notice.

So, it looks like the status quo will be maintained by Barca with regard to the managerial situation. However, this, seemingly, has not gone down too well with some of the players within the squad.

Jordi Alba unsure of Barcelona future

While youngsters like Ansu Fati and Pedri are happy to sign long-term contracts and commit their future to the club, some are having doubts and are considering their futures. One among these players, as reported by El Nacional, is senior left-back Jordi Alba.

The 32-year-old Barcelona captain is contracted till the summer of 2024 and is an undisputed starter in Koeman’s team. However, the Spanish full-back is not convinced of the club’s current prospects and is considering making a beeline for the exit doors.

The report further states that a reunion with former teammate and close friend Lionel Messi at PSG could be on the cards for Alba. It is claimed that the 32-year-old remains in constant touch with the Argentine, who would welcome him with open arms at the French capital club.

The chance of testing himself in another league, competing for titles with PSG would appeal to Alba, while he would also stand to make much bigger wages than he does at Camp Nou. The presence of Messi serves as a significant enticing factor as well.

Selling him is not on the agenda for Barcelona, especially given the lack of viable backup in the position. But, the chance of recouping some fees for an ageing defender and getting rid of his €12 million-a-year net salary could appeal to the Catalans as they continue to struggle financially.

However, considering his importance in the side and the value that he brings, selling Alba is not something that Barcelona are likely to consider at the present moment.