Jordi Alba admits he wanted to stay at Barcelona
Jordi Alba has admitted that he was keen to stay at Barcelona following the mutual termination of his contract.
The full-back had one year remaining on his current deal at the club but on Wednesday it was announced that he will leave this summer.
A statement on the club's official website regarding the news read: "FC Barcelona and Jordi Alba have reached an agreement to terminate the player's contract with the club one year earlier than it was due to expire at the end of the 2023/24 season."
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Speaking to Marca following the news, Alba admitted that he was keen to stay at Camp Nou but also said that the move is ultimately 'best for all parties'.
“It’s a decision I have thought a lot about," he began. "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.
“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.”
Alba joins Sergio Busquets in leaving Barcelona this summer. Busquets leaves Barca as the club's third highest appearance maker and with nine La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues to his name, while Alba will leave with six La Liga titles and one Champions League winners' medal.
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