Thanks Jordi Alba!
The word "H18STÒRIC" was the backdrop for Jordi Alba to say goodbye to his club, FC Barcelona. The Auditori 1899 played host to some truly heartwarming moments. The Catalan has become a blaugrana legend and says farewell as the best left-back in the Club's history, leaving behind a tremendous trophy haul, but also great memories thanks to his quality football and unforgettable assists.
This was Jordi Alba's day and he came dressed for the occasion accompanied by his family and friends, being the last to walk down the red carpet to enter the Auditori 1899. Inside he was welcomed by the first team squad, coaching staff, members of the Board of Directors, and former players such as Gerard Piqué, Moyà and Juanfran.
Emotions abound
The event began with an emotional speech by Jordi Alba himself, who addressed the fans to thank them for "the most special moment during my time at Can Barça, my final day". It may have been emotional, but he still showed his great sense of humour throughout. The tributes kept coming and the Catalan ensured to mention everyone who supported him during his career, but his family in particular.
He reiterated his message at the Spotify Camp Nou, in that "this is not goodbye, it is see you soon and I'll be delighted to come back whenever you need me". The Stadium is a fortress again and full of fans, and Jordi Alba will be back at the Club because it's "part of my life".
Tributes for a H18STÒRIC player
L'Auditori 1899 was full of familiar faces like never before. They didn't want to miss the chance to pay their respects to the man of the moment. The tributes began with his sister and wife and children, which proved a very endearing moment. Gerard Piqué recalled some of the funnier moments during his career and there was a plethora of tributes from his teammates in the squad.
Sergio, Roberto, Ter Stegen, Pedri, Ferran, Eric, and ultimately every first team player wanted to say a few words about the left back. Former teammates like Moyà, Juanfran, Messi, Iniesta and Luis Suarez all paid tribute to Barça's number 18. A special moment for Jordi Alba who revisited the unforgettable moments in his career.
A reference on and off the field
A good person and a reference were often repeated terms during the event, with everyone stating that Jordi Alba had a key role in the dressing room, both on and off the field.
Towards the end of the event, Jordi had to guess the year for each image that appeared on screen and he went and got them all right!
Then came speeches by Xavi Hernández and Joan Laporta, both expressing their affection and admiration. Xavi was honest by stating it was really difficult to manage the playing time of the historic left back this season, while the President thanked the player for every year at Can Barça, emphasising that "the Club will always be his home".
Jordi Alba: "I am leaving happy"
During his final speech to close the event, Jordi Alba thanked everyone and confessed that "I am leaving happy with my head held high. Nothing lasts forever but I would have liked to have been here for a few more years of course. I've given my all for the Club". That brought an end to the event with a round of applause that could ultimately go on forever. Thanks Jordi Alba!