Jordi Alba talks following his Barcelona departure: “Leaving with my head held high”

After 11 long and glorious years at FC Barcelona, Jordi Alba announced earlier today that the 2022-23 season would be his last one as a Blaugrana.

The left-back has engraved his name in gold in the club’s history and will go down as one of the best left-backs to have ever worn garnet-and-blue. His iconic connection with Lionel Messi, relentless work rate down the left flank and Golazos are just a few of the aspects that Alba will forever be remembered for.

The defender gave a long interview to Mundo Deportivo on the occasion of the formal announcement of his departure. His interaction with the outlet answered the questions of many across the world, especially on the spontaneity of the decision and his future. Here are the snippets from his interview.

Unlike the announcement surrounding the departure of Sergio Busquets, news of Alba’s exit came with no prior indications or rumours in the media. The news took the media by storm for the sheer suddenness of the report, and the defender revealed why he opted to leave all of a sudden.

“It’s a decision I have thought a lot about. When I said that I wanted to stay, it was the truth. Being honest with myself and with the club, I think the best thing to do is to step aside.”

Alba departs Spotify Camp Nou after close to 11 years with not only a lot of memories but also special connections, friendships and bonds. Speaking about his love for the club, the roller-coaster journey and the emotions of leaving, he said,

“I’ve always tried to help the club. This is the best for all parties. My relationship with everyone is exceptional. I’m going with a good feeling, I’ve given everything. It hasn’t been all rosy, but I’m leaving with my head held high.”

After winning it all at the club level, Alba is ready for the next stage in his career. However, the defender revealed that he was not sure where his professional journey would take him next and insisted it was the right time for him to step aside.

“As of today I have nothing done with any club and I have not spoken to any club, because I initially wanted to stay. But the years go by and this year I have had a different role, which wasn’t less important. I just think that I have to give way to the youngsters.”

Alba will play his final game at Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday night against Mallorca. It will be an emotional affair for both the left-back and Sergio Busquets who will grace the revered turf one last time in their professional careers. Speaking about the weekend’s game, the left-back said.

“There is one game left at the Spotify Camp Nou, which will be very special for me and also for Sergio.”

Joan Laporta and Xavi Hernandez have deep respect for the 34-year-old and thus did not impose anything on him surrounding his future. Alba publicly revealed the backstory, saying,

“The president and the coach gave me the opportunity to decide. And I have done so.”

Finally, Alba concluded his interview with a half-apology for the times he let the club and its fans down during his spell at the club but once again reiterated that he never lacked commitment to the badge.

“It’s clear that I have been wrong at times, but the people who know me know what my values ​​are: humility and putting in the work.”