Jordi Alba called Atlético's La Liga victory 'stolen'. Jordi Alba spoke about the key moments of his career, controversial matches, and his departure from Barcelona. He highlighted the contributions of Emery and Luis Enrique, and also shared details about his move to Inter Miami.
Jordi Alba spoke sharply about the season when Barcelona lost the championship to Atlético on their home ground, calling that La Liga “stolen.” According to the former defender, refereeing in the decisive match left him with questions, and referee Mateu Lahoz, in his opinion, played a significant role in the outcome. Alba admitted he was sent off by this referee twice and did not hide his disappointment from that season.
In an interview for the program El Camino de Mario Alba spoke in detail about the start of his professional career. He emphasized that it was Unai Emery who became a key figure in his development by moving him from the position of winger to the left side of defense. Alba noted that at first, he did not accept this decision, but over time he understood its benefits. According to him, Emery knows how to unlock the potential of players in any team.
The move to Barcelona became a priority for Alba despite interest from Chelsea. He signed a contract with the Catalan club on the eve of the Euro final, and the negotiation process went quickly. Alba emphasized that it was important to him to return to his home club, even despite alternative offers.
A special place in Alba's story was devoted to working with LUIS ENRIQUE. According to him, this coach managed to create an atmosphere in which every player felt part of a united team, regardless of status in the squad. Alba noted that LUIS ENRIQUE demanded maximum commitment and made no exceptions for stars, which, according to the defender, is rare at this level.
One of the most difficult episodes in Alba's career was Barcelona's elimination by Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League semi-final. He admitted he made a mistake during the first conceded goal, and after the defeat, he couldn't leave his house for a long time. Alba denied rumors that he cried in the locker room, explaining that he felt physically unwell, not emotionally.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alba and other Barcelona captains voluntarily agreed to defer their salaries to support the club. He noted that much false information appeared in the media, leading to the captains being blamed for the club's financial troubles. Alba emphasized that these decisions were made solely in the team's interest.
Leaving Barcelona came as a surprise to Alba. According to him, he was told he needed to transfer to Inter Miami just a day before the close of the transfer window, when his children were already enrolled in school. Alba terminated his contract with the club without having a new agreement in hand, and only after meeting with Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas in Ibiza did he decide to move. At that point, Lionel Messi's transfer had not yet been confirmed.
Speaking about young talents, Alba noted Lamine's progress but stressed that comparing him to Messi is incorrect. In Alba's opinion, Messi remains a unique player who has never put himself above others. At the same time, he called Lamine a true revelation for the club.
The issue of controversial refereeing decisions and the impact of officials on match outcomes is regularly discussed in Spanish football. Similar questions have arisen in other competitions, for example, in the recent Universitario vs. Atlético Grau match, where a player's sending-off became a key moment (details on the controversial episode).
For reference: Jordi Alba played over 400 matches for Barcelona, winning multiple trophies with the club, including the Champions League and La Liga titles. His transfer to MLS became one of the most high-profile moves by a Spanish player in recent years. In recent years, interest in Spanish footballers in the US has noticeably increased, and Inter Miami is actively building a squad of experienced European players.
