Jordi Alba Hints at Lionel Messi‘s Lingering Sentiment Over Barcelona Departure
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba has subtly revealed that Lionel Messi continues to harbor feelings regarding his exit from Barcelona, suggesting the transition remains a complex emotional landscape for the superstar. Speaking ahead of miami’s crucial playoff match against FC Cincinnati, Alba emphasized Messi’s desire for a more relaxed lifestyle as a key factor in his move to MLS, but also alluded to a deeper, unspoken connection to his former club.
Alba, who recently signed a two-year contract extension in May despite considering retirement, explained that while Messi embraces the change of pace in Miami, the decision wasn’t solely about seeking a less demanding sporting environment. “He’s enjoying life here,” Alba stated, “Although I’m sure he’ll miss things, living a more relaxed life in terms of his sporting career was one of the reasons he came here.” This sentiment underscores a shift in priorities for Messi, now 36, but doesn’t negate the emotional weight of leaving Barcelona after a lifetime with the club.
The revelation arrives as Inter Miami navigates a challenging playoff run, with a potential Eastern Conference final matchup against either the Philadelphia Union or New York City FC looming should they overcome Cincinnati. A further victory would position them for an MLS Cup final against either LAFC, potentially featuring Son Heung-min, or Thomas Müller’s vancouver Whitecaps. Alba acknowledged the high stakes, describing the upcoming match against Cincinnati as a “final” given the competitive balance of the league.
“Cincinnati finished second adn we finished third in the regular season,” Alba said. “It’s a strange feeling. Hopefully we can advance and play in that final, and then play the [MLS Cup] final against the other conference.” Though, beneath the focus on on-field success, Alba’s comments offer a rare glimpse into the personal considerations driving Messi’s career choices, hinting at a continued, if private, attachment to the club he defined for two decades.
Alba himself admitted to a waning competitive fire, stating, “I still enjoy the matches, but it’s arduous in my day-to-day life. It’s more about sharing with my teammates or the staff, but that enthusiasm you have at 20 years old gradually fades.” This personal reflection provides context for Messi’s own evolving priorities and suggests a shared understanding between the longtime teammates regarding the challenges and rewards of a changing career phase.
