SPORT celebrates Jordi Alba's 29th birthday with the left-back
The defender spoke to SPORT from Spain's base on Wednesday
Jordi Alba turns 29 in the best moment of his career. The Barclona left-back -- although he's more of a left winger this season -- celebrated his birthday with the Spain squad at Las Rozas. Coach Julen Lopetegui gave the squad the afternnon off, so he was able to spend some time with his family in Madrid.
SPORT wanted to be alongside one of not just Barça's most in-form players, but one of the most in-form players in the game at the moment. And we were fortunate to be able to chat with the man from L'Hospitalet and give him a couple of presents. A number 29 of considerable size and something for his son, Piero, who is just two months old: a toy motorbike in memory of the time Pepe Reina, after the Euro 2012 triumph, gave Alba the nickname Moto GP. Not young Piero will know his dad is the fastest up and down the wing. Alba appreciated the present.
"MY BEST SEASON"
Alba's numbers this season are brilliant. Three goals, 10 assists, 86.74 percent success rate on his passes, 209 ball recoveries... as he recognises himself, "it's been my best season, I have a lot of confidence in myself and the coaching staff give me [confidence], too. When it comes to playing, I feel comfortable. I have the whole wing to myself which allows me to get forward, set up and score goals."
Changes to his diet and starting a family, with his partner Romarey and little Piero, have also been key to the full-back's transformation: "When you're happy at home, that also comes across on the pitch."
TREBLE... AND WORLD CUP
Alba is on route to an historic season. Personally, he's already there, but collectively he could repeat the treble won in 2015 and win his first World Cup. "It's the only title I am missing..." he said of his excitement to lift the trophy in Russia this summer.
In the interview, published in SPORT on Thursday, Alba also spoke about Messi, Iniesta and other teammates. He also spoke about his own future in the game and undertood a quick-fire test. Don't miss it!
