Jordi Alba on Lopetegui, his contract renewal and more
The Barcelona defender spoke ahead of the game against Inter Milan
Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba spoke on various topics ahead of the Champions League clash with Inter Milan.
On Julen Lopetegui: “All the people made decisions and at that moment Julen wanted to finish the World Cup and sign for Madrid, but then the president of the federation [Luis Rubiales] made the decision that he took.
“I have a great relationship with him, I have a great love for him because he has helped me a lot and I wish he could stay in the position.
“Although I did not like the team he joined, he deserves to continue because he is a great professional.”
On his contract: “I’m very calm but I still don’t know anything, it’s up to the club.”
On Messi: “No other player can replace Leo, as good are they are, Leo is different to the rest, he makes the team better. We all have to take responsibility. Sometimes everyone hopes Leo can resolve games, but he’s not here for a short time, so we all have to work hard and show the great team we are, so it’s noticed as little as possible (that he’s not there). We want to win the games as the great team that we are. I back this team more than ever.
“(His absence) affects me a lot. I feel better with Leo on the pitch. Many times he gives me passes that others can't see, even me. I have a good understanding with him because he spots me in space that others don’t see. He looks for me and me for him. I feel stronger with Leo, but my game will still be the same. Of course we are going to miss him.”
