Inter Miami's Jordi Alba will hang up his boots in December once the MLS season is over, and has Unai Emery to thank for the long and successful career he's enjoyed
Unai Emery helped to change Jordi Alba's career, the retiring left-back has said
Unai Emery helped to change Jordi Alba's career, the retiring left-back has said
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Jordi Alba will bow out of the game in December and has Aston Villa boss Unai Emery to thank for having such a successful career.
The Inter Miami left-back has announced he will retire when the MLS season ends this year, calling time on a trophy-laden career.
Alba is a six-time La Liga winner with Barcelona, while he also lifted the Champions League and helped Spain to win Euro 2012, making 93 caps for his country.
But he’s acknowledged that his career may not have panned out so successfully had it not been for Emery’s input.
Back when Alba was coming through the ranks at Valencia, Emery converted him to a left-back against his wishes. It was a decision that paid off hugely.
“Perhaps the key person has been Unai Emery,” the 36-year-old told Sport. “That change of position, everything he did to help me, it was the most important step in my career.
“I didn't want to play as a full-back. All my life I'd played as an attacking midfielder or winger.
“But it was Unai Emery who decided. We talked about it many times: I didn't want to play there. But thanks to that change, I've been able to earn a living and have a successful career.”
While it’s been close to 15 years since they worked together, Villa boss Emery remembers Alba fondly and sent him a message following the announcement of his retirement.
Emery said: “Jordi, congratulations on your impressive career as a footballer. Beyond that, I appreciate you as a person. It was wonderful to share time with you as a professional and witness your growth. On a personal level, even more so.
“From now on, whatever you do in your life, I wish you the best. A big hug from your former coach Unai Emery, who played you at left-back even though you didn’t want to.”
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