Barcelona manager, Xavi, has made it clear to left-back, Jordi Alba that he does not have a place in his plans for the future, according to Catalonian outlet El Nacional.
Alba has been on Barcelona’s books since joining the Catalan club from Valencia in 2012.
The Spaniard has won every major trophy, including the Champions League and La Liga with Barcelona.
However, the 34-year-old veteran defender has fallen behind 19-year-old left-back, Alajendro Balde this season.
Alba has amassed 1721 minutes of playing time across competitions this season for Xavi’s side, while the teenager has clocked 2823 minutes.
He is said to be prepared to continue as a backup for Balde. However, Xavi views Marcos Alonso as a better option than Alba, according to the aforementioned source.
Alba’s contract with Barcelona will expire in June 2024. Hence, Xavi has reportedly warned Alba that his prominence will continue to decrease next season.
Xavi took a similar approach with the club’s legend Gerard Pique earlier this season. Pique was forced to retire after making only four La Liga starts in the first half of the season.
