Reports indicate that Barcelona’s management will have serious conversations with 33-year-old left-back Jordi Alba about his likely exit in 2023 when he becomes a free agent
According to Mundo Deportivo, a Spanish sports daily, Jordi Alba is considering a move away from Barcelona. In January, Barcelona will initiate contract termination talks with the 33-year-old defender in preparation for June.
More than a decade after returning to Barcelona, Jordi Alba has had a legendary career at Camp Nou. After transferring to Valencia from Cornella, the experienced defender quickly established himself as a star on the professional football scene. The Spaniard has improved greatly over the last decade since his days at Barcelona’s renowned La Masia program.
The 33-year-old has played about 450 times in the last decade for Barcelona, contributing 25 goals and 96 assists. He is the epitome of the modern fullback and has been a mainstay on the Spanish national team for quite some time. But now that he is lower down the pecking order at Spotify Camp Nou, Alba’s future is unknown.
The experienced Spanish defenseman’s play has deteriorated significantly in recent years. Moreover, Alejandro Balde’s rise at Spotify Camp Nou coincided with his own deterioration. Plus, Barcelona will have to make a difficult decision next year with Marcos Alonso also on the first-team roster.
Recent rumours suggest that Alonso will be extended a two-year contract by Barcelona. When it comes to left-back, Balde is the long-term option for the Blaugrana, hence Alba will have to be released. Though the 33-year-old has shown development in recent weeks, Barcelona simply cannot have three left-backs in the first-team squad.
Jordi Alba tells Cadena Ser: “I have a contract with Barça and I see myself capable of fulfilling it until June 2024”. 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB
“I have earned respect. When I don't see me ready to play for Barça, I'll be the first to leave. I don't want to make a fool of myself”. pic.twitter.com/WlmH2oDybb
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 22, 2022
Alba has stated his desire to stay with Spotify Camp Nou, but it is possible that his time with the Catalan club is limited. According to the source, Barcelona will have important contract termination negotiations with the Spanish player shortly. In January, the Blaugrana will start talking with him about leaving as a free agent in June.
Alba is under contract with Barcelona until June 30, 2024. However, Barcelona will want to get rid of him so they can stop paying him. Gerard Pique’s early retirement this year has helped the Catalan giants. They want to exercise comparable control over Alba’s impending departure, and will thus prepare for a scenario similar to that of the former.
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