A heartfelt revelation from Jordi Alba has shed light on Lionel Messi's complex emotions surrounding his departure from Barcelona. In an emotional interview, Alba revealed that Messi's controversial exit from the Catalan club still weighs heavily on his mind.
"He wasn't happy with how things ended," Alba shared. "Leo deserves a tribute, and I truly believe he will get one. It will be a momentous occasion, a celebration of his legacy. Everyone is eagerly anticipating that special day."
As Alba and Messi's paths crossed once more in South Florida, playing together for over a decade across two clubs, the left back's words carry weight. Despite their different journeys, the bond between these footballing legends remains strong.
But here's where it gets controversial... Alba and Messi's retirement plans differ. While Alba and his longtime teammate Sergio Busquets plan to hang up their boots after their playoff run, Messi has signed an extension that will keep him in the MLS until he's 41!
"I see a fire still burning within him," Alba added. "He seems content here. I'm not sure if he'll stay for another two or three years, but it's been a privilege to share my career with him."
And this is the part most people miss... Alba has no plans to sneak back into Camp Nou like Messi did during his recent trip with the Argentina national team. Instead, he intends to return with his family, enjoying the matches and the atmosphere in a different way.
"Messi is the greatest of all time. It's only fitting that he has the key to Camp Nou. I'll go back to see him play, and cherish those moments off the pitch as well."
Alba's move to Inter Miami in 2023 brought a new lease of life to his career. He found a more relaxed environment, away from the intense media spotlight.
"Life is simpler here," he explained. "The attention is less intense, and I'm grateful for the experience. I don't have much time left, but living a more relaxed life was a key factor in my decision to come here."
Despite believing he could have played a few more seasons, Alba's mind changed late in the campaign. He signed a two-year extension in May, but now he's ready to call it a day.
As the MLS Semifinals approach, Alba and his team face FC Cincinnati in a crucial match. If they advance, they could face either the Philadelphia Union or New York City FC in the Eastern Conference final. And if they make it all the way, a potential final against Son Heung-min's LAFC or Thomas Müller's Vancouver Whitecaps awaits.
"It's a final, and here, you never know when the last game will be," Alba said. "It's an odd feeling, but hopefully we can advance and play in that final, and then face the other conference in the MLS Cup final."
So, what do you think? Is Messi's departure from Barcelona a chapter closed, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
