Barcelona Star Reveals His Partnership With Leo Messi, Insists He’s “Best in the World”

• Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has thrown light on his relationship with Lionel Messi
• The flying full-back formed a formidable partnership with Messi at Camp Nou which lasted almost a decade
• Rated as one of the best left-backs of his generation, Alba insists Leo Messi is peerless

Jordi Alba took a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about his partnership with Lionel Messi during the latter's time at Barcelona.

Alba and Messi played over 300 matches which resulted in a plethora of titles including multiple La Liga crowns, Copa del Rey and European glory.

Unfortunately, their fruitful alliance was brought to an abrupt end a couple of seasons ago when Messi left Barcelona on a free transfer in 2021.

Messi's emotional exit, enforced by the club's financial constraints, ensured Alba's partnership with the Argentine genius mustered 34 goal contributions.

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Reflecting on his collaboration with Messi, the Barcelona left-back revealed the telepathic understanding that existed among them, linking up effortlessly in games.

"We understood each other perfectly," Alba said as quoted by Sportskeeda.

"I would just put it at the right time. It was increasingly difficult because all the rivals already knew us, but he came in from the second row and sometimes found other teammates who were more unmarked."

He then eulogized Messi, describing the 35-year-old as the 'best player' in all aspects.

"We made a very good duo. With him, everything was easier. Almost all my assists are to him, I remember that the first was at El Sadar. In all aspects of the game, he is the best."

Meanwhile, Messi, whose contract with PSG expires at the end of the season, is understood to be considering his future in Paris and could make a fairytale return to Barcelona, Eurosport reports.

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Ex-Barca star settles GOAT debate

Aside from Alba branding Messi as the "best in the game", ex-Barcelona star Pique praised Ronaldo for his work ethic but admitted Messi was the best.

He added that the Argentine winning the 2022 World Cup at 35 further proved his talent.

Pique played alongside the veteran at Barcelona and with Ronaldo at Manchester United.

FIFPRO XI: Leo Messi nominated

Also, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo will again headline the shortlist for the 2022 FIFPRO World XI, with both superstars making the list of nominees, Sports Brief earlier reported.

Both superstars have been named in the world eleven list since 2007 and their latest nomination represents the 15th occasion they have been named among the world's best players.

According to 90MIN, Messi is widely regarded as the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or this year, having put in all-time great performances for Argentina on their road to World Cup triumph in Qatar.