Jordi Alba talks Dembele, Barcelona exit, reunion with Messi and Busquets

On the day of his Inter Miami presentation, Jordi Alba sat down for a chat where he discussed his move to MLS, as the Miami side continue to put the ex-Barcelona band back together.

Ahead what promises to be an exciting reunion with Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets — both of whom have enjoyed an excellent start to life in Florida — Alba also took time to talk about Barcelona in his interview with SPORT.

A new chapter in the MLS

On why he chose Inter Miami: “When I left Barça, I started talks with Inter Miami, although I had other offers that were better financially. I think the right decision was to come here, they have an exciting project. We want to win and compete.”

On the reunion with Messi and Busquets: “I’m very happy. It’s not only the three of us, there’s a number of players on this team that are very good. We’re all here to compete and win.”

On whether it was planned: “Busquets, Messi and I weren’t planning to play together at Inter Miami.

“Leo and Busi being here made the decision easier, but the culture of the club, and the atmosphere in the stadiums are things that I have also been meditating on and for me, it was the best decision.”

On their synergy together: “The connection I have with Messi, and also with Busquets, it’s been many years playing together… And now we are together again. I see Messi very happy, eager and excited about this new challenge.”

On whether Luis Suarez will join them: “I haven’t spoken to him, but I’d love it if he could come.”

Catching up on all things Barcelona

On Ousmane Dembele: “I have not been able to talk to him. I don’t know his situation. I think he’s good at Barça. He’s a differential player, important for Xavi. I hope he stays.”

On what has changed since leaving: “I’m more relaxed now because the media don’t talk about me anymore. I’m lucky to have been with the team for 11 years.

“For me it’s the best club in the world and you have to think hard before leaving, but each player has their idea.”

On the upcoming season: “I wish Barça all the best this season, I’m very fond of the fans and my teammates, and I’m still talking to a lot of them, Marcos, Ferran, Eric, Pedri, Gavi…”