Messi Pens Emotional Farewell Message to Alba As Defender Leaves Barcelona

• Lionel Messi has sent a message to Jordi Alba as the defender confirms his departure from Barcelona
• Alba terminated his contract with the Catalan giants a year early so he can leave Barca in the summer
• He joins Sergio Busquets as two of Barcelona’s long-term players set to leave at the end of the season

Lionel Messi has reacted to Jordi Alba’s sudden announcement of his departure from Barcelona after 11 years at the Catalan club.

The 34-year-old Spanish defender has had limited games under Xavi and revealed it was best for everyone to step aside this summer, despite still having a year left on his current deal.

According to Football Espana, Messi took to social media to appreciate the Spanish defender, whom he described as going beyond a teammate.

“You were more than a colleague, a true accomplice on the pitch... And how lovely it is also to be able to enjoy how well we get on on a personal level."

Pep Guardiola urges Messi to make emotional return to Barcelona for proper send-off

Football

The Argentine further wished Alba and his family everything of the best.

“May your new status continue to bring you many successes and joys. Thank you for everything, Jordi. A big hug!” he added.

Alba joined Barcelona from Valencia in 2012 and spent nine years playing alongside Messi until the Argentine's departure in 2021.

Jordi Alba’s achievements at Barcelona

Alba is regarded as one of Barcelona’s greatest defenders following the Spanish left-back's achievements with the Catalan club over 11 years at Camp Nou.

The 34-year-old won La Liga six times with Barca, along with five Copa del Rey crowns and the Champions League and Club World Cup once each, Goal reports.

Alba joins an esteemed list of Barcelona veteran players, including Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets, who have left the Catalan club in the last year.

Another Barcelona legend set to depart

Earlier, Sports Brief reported club legend, Alba has decided to leave Barcelona at the end of the season. The 34-year-old's decision is subject to a formal announcement.

The defender was a quintessential part of the team for 10 of the 11 years he has been with the club since returning from Valencia, but has lost his place during this season.